6 “Dont's” You Should Practice With Your Children When Going Through A Divorce

1. Don't flaunt new relationships and potential stepchildren in front of them. Some parents do this to replace the family concept they wanted to work so badly but failed at. Others hope word will leak to their estranged spouse. It's not appropriate unless a longterm relationship develops. You shouldn't be dating in place of spending time with your kids. Besides, should your new beau depart, it's an emotional rerun for them.

2. Don't limit your independence due to your sorrow. Children benefit from seeing that both parents can cook, balance a checkbook, and mow the lawn.

3. Don't let your children feel guilty about the break up. Reassure your children that your breakup had nothing to do with them.

4. Don't overcompensate by buying things and indulging your kids.

5. Don't threaten to send kids off to their dad. In the event that you slip up, apologize quickly and reassure that you said things you regret.

6. Don't rely on your kids as someone to pour your problems out on. If you need a shoulder to lean on, try that of a friend, another adult, a minister or a therapist. Protect their childhood.


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