Without a doubt, the end of a marriage can be very stressful for all parties involved. When parents divorce, child custody is often a main priority. These days, many parents in Kansas choose joint custody or a shared parenting arrangement. Transitioning between two homes is one of the hardest adjustments for children in divorced families. Here’s how parents can help their children adjust to their new living arrangements.
Primary home
It can be very helpful for children to think of one home as their primary home, even if time is split equally between both parents’ homes. This can help the children feel secure and anchored, cutting down on stress. However, this does not mean that the parent whose house is considered the secondary home is a less important parent. The designation just adds a sense of security and less confusion for the kids.
Rules and consistency
Rules and consequences for breaking those rules should exist in both homes. Rules should remain consistent between both homes. It is okay if the rules differ, just as long as there is consistency. Children learn at a very early age that there are different rules in different places such as school, church or their grandparents’ homes. So different rules are generally not a problem as long as the rules are consistent in each home.
Always remember to make the needs of the children the top priority. Having two homes can actually be very enjoyable. Just be mindful of the adjustments the children need with each transition. Parents in Kansas who have questions or what to know more about the laws surrounding child custody could benefit by contacting a knowledgeable and seasoned family law attorney.
