Often, the scars from divorce never heal and remain with the children even as they become adults. Many children become prone to having dysfunctional relationships as adults because of experiencing their parents’ divorce. Therefore, if there is one thing parents need to keep in mind when separating, it is to protect the children as much as possible.

Avoid Quarrelling

During a divorce, emotions usually run high and there is no love lost between couples. They give vent to their anger and pain, resulting in ugly fights and angry bouts. When children who are already feeling vulnerable at this stage witness this, they become deeply troubled. Watching their parents fight can be extremely unsettling and can frighten them. They learn ugly truths that hurt them and remain with them for ever.

No matter how angry a couple are with each other, they have to stop themselves from quarrelling in front of the children. They can fight in private and make the effort to put on an amicable front for the children. If parents can get divorced with as much restraint as possible, it will go a long way in diminishing the emotional damage caused to children. If children can see that their parents are capable of being friendly, then they may not fear the consequences of divorce so much.

Reassuring Children

When a couple is getting divorced, they need to sit down with their children and have a heart-to-heart conversation. They can explain the reasons for divorce as honestly as possible while keeping ugly details out of the way. Divorcing couples also need to address every query that the children might have. Further, they must reassure the children that even if they stop being husband and wife, they still very much remain parents. It is also important to reassure children that whatever changes the divorce might bring, the children would be the topmost priority.

Sometimes, children do not understand why their parents are separating and begin blaming themselves. It is important to disabuse them of this notion. Children should be reassured that they will have anytime access to both their parents.

Financial Security

A divorce should change as little as possible in the lifestyle of children. As they are already insecure and unsettled, to change their living arrangements, schools, extracurricular activities etc. due to financial constraints can be difficult for them to come to terms with. It is important that the necessary financial settlements are made so the children can continue living as normally as possible and without worry.

The Circle of Love

Divorce can be a terribly alienating time for children and they can withdraw into a shell. This is a time for parents to surround them with as much love as possible. To cushion them from the pain of divorce, both parents should be extra patient and shower the children with more love than ever. Extended family too should be encouraged to be supportive and loving, so children can deal with their turmoil better.

Friends and Social Activities

Engaging with friends and enjoying their company can distract children from the harshness of divorce. They must be allowed to have as many friends over as possible so that they can feel happy and secure. Children feel reassured if they feel that not too much is going to change. Having their friends around can give them a sense that all is well.

Keeping children busy with different activities and interests, is another way to protect them during a bitter divorce drama. Pursuing new hobbies, engaging in sports, and learning new skills can give them little time to dwell on negative thoughts. Their mind is occupied and the damage is minimised.

Conclusion

There is no foolproof way to protect children from a divorce drama. However, every attempt has to be made to shield them as much as possible. If a couple puts on a united front at least as far as parenting goes and makes amicable joint decisions about their children’s welfare, it will help a great deal. They are, after all, the innocent victims in the entire divorce drama. Children are basically resilient and respond to love and affection. Therefore, if handled in the right way, the scars from divorce will heal quickly, allowing them to grow as normally as possible.