No matter how badly two people may want to separate from one another, no one enjoys going through a divorce. It can be a difficult and emotional event for even the most stable of adults. For children whose parents are getting a divorce, it can be traumatizing. A newly published report offers some suggestions on how Oregon parents can best help their children to cope during what is surely an upsetting time for them.
Released on Nov. 28, a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics reveals that each child deals with the strain of a divorce differently. How children handle it will vary depending on their level of maturity, age and their own unique temperament. And while most will adjust to the new situation in two to three years, there may still be moments of deep emotional upset for years afterwards, particularly during milestone events like holidays, birthdays and graduations.
Recommendations for parents in the report include making an appointment to see a pediatrician. Their special insight into the emotional responses of children can help parents understand what their children are going through. They may also be able to suggest courses of action that could benefit the child.
A lot of changes are thrown at children very suddenly when their parents divorce. They may have to move to a new home and change schools. They may even have to deal with seeing their parents with new partners. All of this can be confusing for kids, and the report urges parents to be open and honest with their children when they ask questions.
It is inevitable that strong emotions will surface for everyone in the family when parents divorce. By working together to find solutions that will most help their children, parents may be able to minimize their distress. Working in collaboration with an Oregon family law firm that encourages negotiation and mediation is an excellent first step toward achieving that goal.
Source: medpagetoday.com, “AAP: Docs Can Help Kids Cope With Divorce“, Alexandria Bachert, Nov. 28, 2016
