Divorce can be a struggle for everyone in the family. Even when family members agree that divorce is the right solution, it can still be stressful, especially when you and your spouse have children.
As you look toward a future of co-parenting and shared custody, it can be difficult to imagine a peaceful transition for your children. Child-centered divorce is an option to consider as you start to think about what divorce will mean for your children.
Here’s what you should know about the goals of a child-centered divorce.
Focus on moving forward
It can be easy to get sucked into the controversy of ending the marriage during a divorce. Although significant conflicts may bring you to this point, a child-centered divorce sets the need for justice aside to focus on the future.
Ultimately, you, your spouse and your children will need to move forward after divorce. When you allow conflict to fester, it can make moving forward difficult. Rather than dwelling in the conflict, a child-centered divorce means ensuring that your children are cared for, safe and loved, regardless of the settlement between you and your spouse.
Continue to build relationships
While you are ending your relationship with your spouse, you will have your relationship with your children for the rest of your life. This is a challenging time for everyone in the family. It is essential to help everyone feel heard and understood.
The process of going through a divorce may take a considerable amount of your spare time (and money). Still, it is critical to find ways to continue to build your relationship with your children. Taking time to be with them and listening to them will help them feel supported while finding a new sense of normal.