If you are thinking about getting a divorce, you are probably worried about how it will affect your children.
The reality is that divorce is a real change in everyone’s life, and children notice that. However, there are things we can do during the process of your divorce to help you protect your children. Our primary focus as lawyers is on legal matters; however, our actions and advocacy can help create a stable and supportive environment for children coping with divorcing parents.
In this article, we will explore how to protect your children during a divorce, ensuring that you keep their well-being as your main priority throughout the divorce proceedings.
How does divorce affect children?
Children are more perceptive than we often think. For most children, experiencing the change in their family dynamic is disruptive. However, for some children, divorce can have negative physical, mental and educational effects. Research shows that despite the disruption in their lives, children who have the proper tools can cope effectively during and after a divorce.
The main elements of a divorce that affect children are:
- Disruption of your family structure
- Emotional stress
- Parental conflict
- Changing homes and living arrangements
- Financial changes
- Parents stress
- Feeling guilty
Here are 5 Ways to Support Children During a Divorce.
When it comes to helping your child cope with the different stresses, there are certain things you and your previous spouse can do. However, you can also speak with your lawyer about your concerns, and we can help you choose the right approach for your divorce based on your needs. There is no right way to go about a divorce; however, we have the experience and the skills to help you navigate the legal elements and find the right solution for your children.
How do we help protect children during the divorce process?
Our main focus remains on legal matters throughout the divorce; however, we know how important your children are to a good outcome from a divorce. Our experience helping a range of families in Mississauga, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Barrie and Oshawa allows us to advise you and help you advocate for the best interest of yourself and your children.
Advocating for your child’s best interest
During your divorce, you will make decisions related to decision-making responsibility (previously custody) and parenting time. Each family and their needs in a divorce are different, which is why a lawyer can help you put your child’s best interests first when making agreements or settlements.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
If it is right for your family, a mediation or alternative dispute resolution outside of the courts may ease some of the disruption your child faces. Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method that encourages open communication and collaboration between parents. As lawyers, we act as your advocate and, you and your children through the mediation process. Through the mediation process, we can reach resolutions to issues such as parenting time, financial support, and decision-making responsibilities.
Ensuring legal protections and adhering to court orders
When necessary, we can help you obtain legal protections for your children, such as restraining orders. We also work to ensure that any decision-making responsibility decisions, parenting time and child support decisions are made with the best interests of your children in mind. By having an experienced lawyer advise you and represent you through these proceedings, you ensure that your child’s safety, well-being and stability are all being prioritized throughout your divorce.
How to help your child adjust
As a parent, there are things you can do throughout the divorce process that will make it easier for your children as well as for us to get the best outcome possible for you and your children.
Effective communication
Keeping communication open with your children during your divorce process will help create a sense of security and understanding during a time when there are many uncertainties. Explaining the situation in age-appropriate language, and listening to their concerns helps foster a healthier emotional environment and allows our team to understand the needs of your child. Understanding your child’s concerns will allow us to advocate for the best interests of your family and prepare strategies that align with your unique circumstances.
Learn how to create a parenting plan.
Seek support
You understand your child best; however, it’s okay to get support from your community. Whether through counselling, therapy, or support groups, a safe space for your children to express their feelings and navigate the emotional complexities of divorce can be immensely beneficial. Professional support helps children process their emotions, understand the changes happening in their family, and develop coping mechanisms. Your children may also find peers they can relate to and share experiences with to find a sense of validation. Recognizing the importance of your child’s mental health and well-being will help them navigate your divorce and the years that follow.
If you are looking for a family lawyer in Mississauga, contact us for your free consultation. We also have locations in Newmarket, Barrie, Richmond Hill and Oshawa.
Resources For Parents in Mississauga:
https://www.peelschools.org/mental-health-parents
https://everymind.ca/
https://www.peelregion.ca/children/early-on.asp
https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/mentalhealth/separation_and_divorce