After your divorce is finalized, you may find yourself faced with a shared custody situation in regards to your children.
Despite the fact that this arrangement is common, it won’t make things any easier on you. At the same time, it’s your job, along with the other parent, to ensure that your children are in the best possible position to succeed in the future.
Here are some top tips for explaining shared custody to your children:
- Make sure you and your ex-spouse are on the same page in regards to what you’re saying to your children
- Leave your drama in the past, as this will only make things worse on your children
- Let your children know that things can and will remain the same, despite the fact that you and your ex-spouse are no longer living together
- Explain what’s happening, as to give your children a clear understanding of what the future will bring
- Stay positive at all times, as this goes a long way in allowing your children to take this same outlook on the situation
Along with the above, you should always be available to answer questions. You never know what your children will want to discuss, but it’s up to you to clear the air and provide them with the information they require.
It goes without saying that explaining shared custody to your children can be a challenge. However, once you know your legal rights as a parent, it’s much easier to provide your children with an environment that will help them thrive in the years to come.
Source: Parents, “Explaining Shared Custody to Kids,” accessed Jan. 04, 2018