Children who are going through a divorce often have a lot of uncertainties. They probably feel bad about having to go back and forth between their parents. Some children might have a very difficult time with the transition. Parents who are going through a divorce have to take steps to help their children adjust to the new situation. Our Colorado readers might find some of these tips helpful.
How can I help my child adjust to going to their other parent’s house?
One thing you can do is to make sure that your child knows that time with the other parent is coming up. Don’t surprise the child with having to go to the other parent’s house if the child is already having trouble making the transition. When the time comes for your child to go to the other parent’s house, drop the child off so that you can help the child with the transition. Before leaving for that house, make sure your child have his or her lovey and other items that will help with the transition.
What if my child won’t go with the other parent?
The most important thing you can do if your child doesn’t want to go see the other parent is to find out why. This gives you the opportunity to help your child with the transition of going to see the other parent. In some cases, the reason is something as simple as missing a favorite toy that is at your home. Once you know the reason, you can work toward finding a solution to the problem.
It is vitally important that parents remember that child custody and visitation aren’t contests. The important thing is that your child is healthy and happy. That should be at the heart of all child custody and visitation arrangements.
Source: HelpGuide.org, “Co-Parenting Tips for Divorced Parents” accessed Feb. 13, 2015
