When a California couple decides to get a divorce, the parties involved understandably have a number of issues to resolve. Questions surrounding division of assets or “who gets what?” are typically at the forefront of discussions. However, when the couple has children, matters of child custody become paramount in the deliberations. Parents want to ensure that their children have the support they need as divorce proceedings are underway. Family experts offer some suggestions to help children effectively cope with the changes affecting them.
New living arrangements and schedules can be overwhelming for anyone, no matter what age. It is important to allow children to simply feel what they feel and not be told how they should react to what is happening in their lives. Concise, honest answers to their questions also keep the children informed in a way that is age-appropriate. Details don’t need to be shared; however, communication with the children is critical during this time.
Studies show that maintaining relationships with both parents following a divorce is best for the children. Therefore, it is not appropriate to force a child to choose one parent over another. Although communication between the ex-spouses may be difficult, the relationship with the children and their parent needs to be encouraged. Guard against using the children as a way to communicate or provide information about an ex-spouse.
Going through a divorce can be an overwhelming experience. It is important to have a knowledgeable advocate working on one’s behalf, particularly when issues of child custody are being addressed. A California divorce attorney will work diligently to protect the best interests of a client. An experienced lawyer will strive to obtain the most favorable outcome in the divorce proceedings.
