When you’re going through a divorce, it can be hard enough just keeping things together for yourself.  So, trying to be a good parent when you’re at your worst can be overwhelming and exhausting.

These 7 DOs and DON’TS for parenting during divorce can go a long way to help ease the transition for your kids.

1.        DO stick to regular routines as much as possible for mealtimes, bedtimes, homework schedule, and curfews, particularly for younger children.

2.        DO reduce arguments with your spouse, especially around the kids.  Regardless of their ages, kids can pick up even the tiniest hint of conflict between their parents.  Even if you’re not actively shouting at each other, your kids can sense the chilly atmosphere between the two of you.

3.        DO make every effort to support your child’s relationship with the other parent so your child can feel free to love both of you.

4.        DO NOT ask the kids to act as a go-between by sending messages back and forth to the other parent.

5.        DO NOT ask the kids questions about the other parent’s personal life, such as dating activities.

6.        DO NOT make disparaging comments about your spouse to or in front of the children.

7.        DO encourage ongoing relationships between your kids and extended family members.  The more people who love and care about your kids, the less painful the divorce can be for them.

These tips can help guide you in keeping your kids front and center to minimize any long-term negative emotional effects for them.

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