When a marriage or common law relationship breaks down, the separation process can be very traumatic for children. Sometimes, children are forcibly removed from the home they are accustomed to living in to reside with the other parent. Depending on the age of the children (infant, pre-teen, or teen) they may have problems communicating big feelings like sadness, anger or frustration. Consulting a separation attorney can help parents navigate these challenging situations and ensure that the best interests of the children are protected throughout the process.
It is important for the adults to maintain a healthy, loving relationship with the children of the marriage or common law relationship. Depending on the age of the children, their emotional and physical needs will vary. The common denominator is children need love and reassurances that they are safe and protected. During separation, protecting and nurturing family relationships is an important priority.
It is important to maintain meaningful relationships with your children during separation. Consider these helpful tips:
- Regular communication by phone, WhatsApp, text messages or other social media is essential for children to remain connected.
- Spend time with your children out in nature. Walking, hiking, bicycle riding and other activities are fun and a great way to chillax with your children.
- Have a “check-in” time with children to find out how they are processing the separation. Look out for signs of anxiety, depression, and insomnia to monitor the health of your child.
- If you notice the early signs of anxiety and depression in your children, it may be necessary to contact a counsellor, minister or other trusted professional to share what your children are going through and discuss solutions.
- Do everything necessary to protect your children from any arguments, conflicts or disagreements between you and your former husband, wife or partner.
- Do not make negative or disparaging comments about your former husband, wife or partner in the presence of your children and/or on social media.
- Encourage your children to eat healthy foods by setting the right example at meal time.
- Create extended family connections with loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents that the children enjoy being around.
- Treating the family law proceeding as a valuable learning experience, despite the challenges you are confronting. For example, pay attention to how the court system operates and learn about your parental rights, especially if you have children. Knowledge is power!
A family law lawyer is a valuable expert who can help guide you through the complexities of family law proceedings. A family law lawyer can also provide valuable legal advice about family law issues such as custody (decision-making responsibility), access (parenting time), division of net family property, child support, and spousal support.
Loyens Law is a competent divorce law office that serves Mississauga and surrounding areas with a team of Family/Divorce lawyers who have the expertise to help fathers deal with various issues. We take pride in our commitment to advocating for our clients to achieve solutions. We are ready and willing to help. Contact us to get started.
