Most Pennsylvania parents hope that they can do everything possible to raise their kids right. In some cases, that can mean giving a great deal of consideration to a decision that could affect the children for the rest of their lives. Divorce is one decision that can have such an impact, and parents often worry about how their children will get on after the marriage comes to an end. Fortunately, parents can do their part to help the transition have as little negative effect as possible.
Often, the best arrangements for custody are those that allow the kids to see both parents regularly. Of course, there are certain circumstances, such as abusive situations, that may make it unsafe for the children to see one parent. However, if that is not the case, divorcing parents may want to give joint custody its due consideration during the legal proceedings.
If joint custody is the end result, parents can help their kids get used to the new arrangements by implementing the following tips:
- Create a specific pickup and drop-off time so that the kids have consistency.
- Remind the children that they are not at fault for the divorce and encourage them to talk about their feelings.
- Continue to include each parent in important decisions.
- Allow the kids to have as much contact with each parent as they desire, which may mean using telephone calls, video chats or other means of communication when not in person.
- Ensure that each household has similar rules regarding bedtime, school work and other routine-related matters.
Try as they might, not all parents can remain married. Some issues may be insurmountable, and in the end, it may be better for the parents and children for divorce to occur. It does not mean that the parents have to give up their place in their kids’ lives, and if Pennsylvania parents can agree to work together, they may be able to mitigate the effects that ending the marriage have on the children.