Children look to their parents to help make sense of the world they live in.

For children of any age, divorce can be stressful and confusing. Many children feel uncertain as to their future; some feel angry at the prospect of their mom and dad splitting up – one leaving the household

While parents may be devastated or relieved by the divorce, children are invariably frightened and confused by the threat to their security. Divorce can be misinterpreted by children unless parents tell them what is happening, how they are involved and not involved, and what will happen down the road. Some children even believe they have caused the conflict between their parents.

There are too many children who have experienced the dissolution of their family by the process of divorce. Did you know that 50 percent of children are growing up in a single parent environment? Children need their parents in order for them to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Divorce brings out the worst in people – they make mistakes, they sometimes lie, they resort to buying their love or demeaning the other parent. In their need to move on with their own lives, they may sometimes leave behind their children’s.

It doesn’t have to be this way. As a parent, you can make the process and its effects less painful for your children. Helping your children cope with divorce and attending to all of their needs with a reassuring attitude, means stability for them.

As a parent, it’s normal to feel uncertain about how to give your children the right support during your divorce, but you can do it; you can help your children emerge from it feeling loved, confident, and strong.

These are a few ways to help your children adjust to divorce:

• Have patience
• Give reassurance
• Listen to what your children have to say
• Don’t mess with their daily routines – gives them stability and structure; shows you care
• Try to maintain a friendly relationship with your ex to avoid stress

In California, family law judges place the highest priority on protecting the children’s best interests during divorce. When issues regarding children arise, parents often have a difficult time doing what is truly best for their children’s welfare because they are so angry.

However, with the help of an experienced family law attorney, you can determine what best suits your family situation. Contact the compassionate family attorneys at Holstrom, Block & Parke. We will keep your children’s welfare as the top priority throughout your divorce. Get in touch with us today, and discuss your case.

We have offices in Riverside, Orange and San Bernardino Counties for your convenience.