Here’s the bad news: divorce with kids in Roseville, CA is hard to go through. There is no way to fast forward past the pain that they feel. However, there are ways to make it easier, and make kids feel safe and loved, in spite of the major rupture to the family structure.
The best-case scenario for your kids is that they never have to experience divorce, but when that’s just not possible, here’s the second-best case scenario: you and your co-parent working together (I know, it may sound tough but it’s not impossible) to make sure your kids understand that this has nothing to do with them. The two of you are a team, committed to consistency and doing everything possible to ensure your children feel safe and loved.
Here are some big ways that divorce affects children, and what you can do as parents to help them through this difficult experience. Depending on their age, some of these feelings may present themselves differently.
Emotions You & Your Child May Experience Divorce with Kids in Roseville, CA
Afraid
When the family structure crumbles and parents are in transition – one or both moving – all that chaos is extremely unsettling for children.
It is imperative that both parents understand this, and do whatever they can to make sure the children feel as secure as possible.
Talk to them when you’re going through a divorce with kids, and let them know that change can be hard, but it can also be good. Let them know that parental love is something that never goes away, and even though you and the other parent don’t live together anymore, your love for the children always remains. No matter which house, or where they are, that love is always there.
Confused
Divorce with kids in Roseville, CA can be confusing for them. can feel like the rug’s been yanked out from underneath them. They may feel totally blindsided.
Many youngsters internalize the reason for the divorce and think it may have something to do with them. It’s imperative that you both reassure them that this is not the case.
While children don’t need to know the nitty-gritty details and the whole convoluted backstory preceding the decision to divorce, try to explain in the best and most age-appropriate way. Hear their concerns, and answer their questions to the best of your ability.
Never, ever badmouth the other parent. The worst thing parents can do is use their children as pawns or vent inappropriately about the other.
No matter how hurt or angry you are, when you are going through a divorce with kids, do not ever drag your kids into it.
What’s Next for those Experiencing Divorce with Kids in Roseville, CA?
The unknown is scary for everyone, especially kids. They are not yet decision-makers, and not knowing what’s happening next can be anxiety provoking.
You may find this a little challenging to address if you don’t know what’s next either.
Divorce is rough on everyone. Everyone gets tossed far beyond the walls of their comfort zone, emotions are charged, and navigating the thorny path can be touch-and-go.
Co-parenting counseling is an excellent resource. A light that helps everyone involved. As divided as you and your co-parent may be, I bet there’s one thing both of you agree on: your kids come first.
At the Relationship Therapy Center, our therapists help newly divorced couples with communication, consistent parenting, and implementing the same rules for both households.
Life comes with challenges. We know overwhelming this situation can feel, and if you need it, we’re here to help you through.
Begin Counseling for Divorce with Kids in Roseville, CA & Fair Oaks, CA:
You and your ex are no longer together. Now that the relationship has ended, it is time to learn how to co-parent. Counseling can help. Our team of marriage therapists is ready to help you resolve issues and improve communication so you can focus on meeting your children’s needs. To begin counseling in the Sacramento Area, please follow these three steps:
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Contact our counseling office to get more information about co-parent counseling and schedule a free consultation
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Make an appointment with one of our skilled relationship therapists
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Find harmony with your ex as you learn to co-parent your children.
Other Services offered at The Relationship Therapy Center:
In addition to co-parent counseling, Our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Couples Counseling, Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Our individual therapy services include anxiety treatment, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, codependency counseling and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones.