Ohio parents who are facing divorce understand this process will have a significant impact on the youngest members of the family. Even teens can suffer mental and emotional stress when their parents decide to go their separate ways. Thankfully, there are ways you can shield them from undue duress and ensure they have a strong future.
Children benefit when allowed to have a strong relationship with both parents after divorce. This is one of the most significant and practical ways to ensure they do not suffer emotionally when you divorce. You can do this by drafting a practical and equitable custody plan that allows them to have access to and a strong relationship with both parents.
What do your children need?
Putting it simply, children need both of their parents. Divorce is difficult and involves many complex emotions, and it is not always easy for parents to set aside their feelings and keep their children as the main focus. Instead of thinking about how you can get everything you want and win every argument, it is best for the kids when you keep their current and long-term interests as your goal.
Researchers have put a significant amount of time into studying how divorce impacts children and what parents can do to help their kids walk through this difficult time of transition. One study looked at post-divorce relationships in which children were engaged with their parents only a little, moderately or a lot. They learned the following:
- Children don’t just need to spend time with both parents; they need to have contact with the other parent when they are not with him or her.
- Parents do not have to get along, like each other or communicate in order for children to benefit from contact with both of them.
- Most teens have their own electronic devices, which means it is easy for parents and children to stay in touch and for parents to provide daily support, even when they are not together.
- Staying in continuous contact with the children can help parents keep up with what their children are going through.
You can maintain a good relationship with your teen after divorce, even if you do not get along with the other parent. A good parenting plan and communication with your kid when you are not with him or her can allow you to provide the support a teen needs. The post-divorce transition is difficult, but it is possible to minimize the emotional duress this can cause your kids.
