Rebuilding Relationships With Children After Divorce

Many parents tend to fear a divorce will ultimately damage their relationship with their children. The truth is, it doesn’t always have to be this way. With the collaborative divorce process, you and your spouse can maintain your valuable relationships during this difficult time. Rebuilding relationships with your family will undoubtedly require work, but it will be worth it over time.

Collaborative Divorce Helps To Rebuild Relationships

Collaborative divorce is built on respectful relationships. This is especially true when the filing couple has children together. Dissolving a marriage doesn’t mean you have to dissolve your entire family. This is simply a time of transition that can alter how and where you live.

You and your partner can focus on rebuilding new relationships that are geared toward a healthy future. You may also be able to build an even stronger relationship with your children at this time.

How To Rebuild Relationships With Your Kids

Imperfect Families says, “Mending a damaged relationship can be “one step forward, two steps back.” Just when you think you’re back on track, something happens, and there’s distance again. Instead of waiting for perfection, look for the good. Notice when your child hangs around a little more than usual. Smile when she walks into the room. Celebrate when you make it through a transition without an argument. Find something positive every day…Slowly, you’ll notice a shift in your thinking. Rather than trying to avoid him, you may start to enjoy him again.”

1. Make Amends

Apologizing is an easy way to begin the process of rebuilding any damaged relationships. Utilize age-appropriate language, explaining what you did to end up in this situation. Ask if there is anything you can do to make amends, then focus on making the relationship as strong as possible.

2. Use The Children’s ‘Love Language’

Rebuilding these relationships with your children requires communication on their terms. Constance Scharff, Ph.D. says, “Teach yourself to give love in the way your child receives it.”

3. Do Not Expect Anything

It is certainly possible for your child to forgive you while also preferring to live with your ex. Rebuilding relationships with your children takes a lot of work and commitment. Keeping communication lines open at all times is a must.

4. Be More Involved In Their Lives

Prioritize all the important moments in their lives, such as sporting events or band recitals. Refrain from focusing on the one child that may be having the most difficult time, though. All of your children need love and reassurance.

5. Focus On Co-Parenting Plan

With the collaborative divorce process, you may learn some effective communication skills to navigate this slippery slope of an emotional divide. Co-parenting means both parents want the best for the children. Your kids will be reassured about this situation when they see you both unite as co-parents.

6. Do Not Give Up

Rebuilding relationships will take time, but your children are worth it, needless to say. As you begin building your new life, make sure you always reach out to your children in healthy and helpful ways.

Attorney Arizona

There’s nothing better than the peace of mind you will have knowing you’ve protected your family at a time when they need it most. Let us help. Schedule a consultation or contact Ogborne Law, PLC of Arizona today.