Facing Divorce or Separation
Parents who can no longer work together in the same household may be facing divorce or separation. Nearly half of all American couples site unrepairable relationship problems and differences as they end their marriages with divorce. Divorce is often difficult and emotional for both parties involved and can be devastating for children. Coping with the situation and looking to see if mends can be made to the relationship are often important first steps for those facing a potential divorce. Getting Outside Help Often, a relationship is seen with the bias of both people involved. In order to even start to see the other person’s side of the situation, a couple will need to seek outside counsel from someone they both trust. Often, a counselor dedicated to marriage can help the couple work on their communication and compassion. Marriage requires selflessness from both parties to work.
Temporary Separation Sometimes, separation helps wounds heal and makes the heart fond once more. Moving into apartments San Diego may help the couple find the space they need while their frustrations are ironed out. Some couples choose to switch between the house and the apartment so that their kids don’t have to move back and forth. While this time period may be hard on the adults, the kids often find this arrangement comforting – especially if they are young and cannot understand what is going on. Some parents who cannot resolve their differences even split the home in half, parenting their kids in the same place without the constant movement and adjustments that living separately would cause.
Working as a Team When kids are involved, parents have to set aside their personal hurts and frustrations to consider the kids first. Experts agree it is important parents to do not downtalk or badmouth the other parent to their kids. Adults have to work as a team to raise their kids in the best way possible. Parents might also have to work to have holidays and birthdays together so that a child doesn’t feel like he or she has to choose between parents as he or she grows up. Setting Rules During the divorce or separation period, parents have to come up with rules they can both stand by. Parenting kids on an even base with clear expectations is important for stability.
Consistency will help kids know what is expected of them and help them feel secure that both parents are caring for them.