Sharing custody of your children after a divorce can take its toll on everyone. Helping your children understand the purpose of splitting their time between homes can have its challenges too.
Even though sending your children back and forth between different houses is not an ideal situation, effective shared parenting can have a number of undeniable benefits. Easing the transition for your children might improve their acceptance of the situation.
Eliminate tension
Arguably the most important thing you can do is to eliminate tension. Your children already know that something went awry between their parents. However, allowing your differences to perpetually influence your interactions with your ex can be incredibly damaging for your children.
Even though you may never see eye to eye on everything, do your best to minimize any tension during transitions. Discuss important topics in private. If it helps, consider exchanging children in a public place where the likelihood of something dramatic happening decreases. Your children will appreciate the cordial relationship you have with your ex, especially as they get older.
Create a sense of belonging
Make your home a comfortable and inviting place for your children. Create a space that does not require them to pack bags to live comfortably in your house. According to U.S. News, despite your divorce, carry on family traditions and involve your children in creating new ones.
Hang your children’s artwork and invite them to arrange their bedrooms. This is especially helpful if you have to relocate. Giving your children a space to call home will give them a sense of belonging despite the uncertainty they might feel about living in two places.
Divorce does not have to be the reason your children suffer. Your commitment to providing them with a loving home might minimize the negative consequences so often associated with divorce and its impact on children.
