When parents split up, the well-being of their children is often one of their main concerns. In most cases, both parents will want to do what’s best for their kids and try to cooperate as much as possible. However, there are times when things can get complicated, and disagreements may arise over important issues like custody and support.
If you’re going through a divorce or are about to start the process, keeping your children’s health and well-being at the forefront of your mind is important. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
1. Communicate with your ex-partner
Always put the health and well-being of your children first, even if it means setting aside your differences with your ex-partner. If you have joint custody of your kids, you must communicate regularly with each other about their care and any changes or concerns that come up.
If you cannot communicate directly with your ex, consider using a child custody lawyer or mediator to help facilitate discussions. They can help you resolve any disagreements constructively and positively.
You can also talk to your children’s doctor or another trusted medical professional about your concerns and ask for their advice on how to best care for them during this time. Tell them about your arrangement and ask for their help communicating with both parents about the child’s health.
2. Make sure your children have a support system
Your children will need a support system to help them cope with the stress of their parent’s divorce. Make sure they have someone to talk to, whether a family member, friend, teacher, counselor or therapist.
It’s also important to let your children know they can come to you with any concerns or problems. Let them know you’re there for them and will do everything you can to help them through this tough time.
Sometimes, you will need to seek professional help for your children if they’re having difficulty coping with the divorce. Talk to their doctor or mental health professional if you notice any changes in their behavior, such as withdrawal, depression, anxiety, or aggression.
3. Keep up with their medical and dental appointments
It’s essential to keep up with your children’s medical and dental appointments, even during a divorce. Many parents get too caught up in the process and forget to schedule these critical appointments.
If you have joint custody, make sure you are both aware of when the appointments are and take turns taking the child to them. If you have sole custody, make sure you schedule the arrangements in advance and put them in a place where you won’t forget them.
You should also make sure your children are up-to-date on their vaccinations. This is important for their overall health and well-being, as well as the health of those around them.
4. Help them stay active
Many children become sedentary when their parents divorce because they no longer have the same access to activities and sports. It’s important to help your kids stay active to maintain their physical and mental health.
You can do this in many ways, such as signing them up for a sports team or activity, taking them to the park, or going on family hikes or walks together. You want to ensure they get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
If they’re not interested in sports or other activities, you can encourage them to be more active by setting a good example. Go for walks or runs together, ride bikes, or play active games together. Always ensure they have a safe place to be active and adequately protected from the sun and heat.
5. Teach them healthy coping skills
It’s important to teach your children healthy coping skills to help them deal with the stress of their parent’s divorce. Some healthy coping skills include exercise, journaling, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques.
You can also teach them how to deal with negative emotions healthily. Help them understand that it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or frustrated but that they need to find healthy ways to deal with those emotions. Explain to them that taking their anger out on others or themselves is not okay.
It’s also important to encourage positive thinking. Help your kids focus on the good things in their life and look for the silver lining in challenging situations. Instead of dwelling on the negative, help them find the positive.
It’s essential to keep your children’s health in check during a divorce. Make sure they have a support system, keep up with their medical and dental appointments, help them stay active, and instill healthy coping skills. Doing these things can help your children through this tough time.
Talk to their doctor or mental health professional if you have any concerns about your children’s health or well-being. They can help you determine if your children need additional support.
