After Separation: 5 Best Practices for Moving with Children

couple separating

Divorce or separation is a legal right most couples in the world enjoy. However, along with the significant change in the family structure, they may also encounter problems ensuring their children grow up as they expect them to.

Therefore, parents should also consider the children involved in the change, as they are affected most by the situation. For example, if parents decide to move away from each other, which practices should they do to take care of their children?

1. Notify Parties

Parents should notify their children about the divorce or separation as soon as possible. They should explain the situation appropriately and answer any questions the children might have. Explaining should help their children cope and understand the circumstances involved.

Meanwhile, notifying parties should also include letting the other parent know of the following changes. However, it depends on the parent with the right to provide necessary information like the new address or contact numbers they will change into later.

2. Expect Objections

No matter how calmly and carefully the parents explain the situation to their children, they should still expect some objections, especially from the other party. Complaints usually occur when the other parent disagrees with the significant change, prompting them to argue.

It is essential to remain calm and listen to their objections when this happens. Parents should try to understand their child’s feelings and concerns, along with their past partners. Communicating with both sides should improve the transition to the next chapter in their lives.

3. Ask for Permission

Parents should always ask for permission from their children before making a significant life change. Although it is ultimately the parent’s decision, asking for permission shows respect and gives the children a sense of control.

But it can become a different scenario if the other party rejects relocating. Therefore, parents should request court permission to move to a new location.  However, the results depend on the best interests of the children involved.

4. Prepare for Change

Parents should also prepare their children for the changes that will come with the new situation. It includes discussing each parent’s roles, the new rules and regulations, and living arrangements. The decisions should equally benefit both parties, not only the other.

It is also essential to explain the financial implications of the change. Children will continue to have questions over time. Parents should be honest and open about the economic consequences so the children understand the situation and how it will affect them.

5. Encourage Open Communication

Lastly, parents should encourage open communication between the children and both parents. It will help them to understand the situation better and make it easier for them to adjust to the changes. As a result, they will feel safe during the transition to a new lifestyle.

Parents should also encourage the children to talk about their feelings and ask questions. Sometimes, children do not ask because they feel they do not have the right. However, let them know that if they have something to say, they should speak out about it.

Conclusion

Moving out after a separation can be a difficult and emotional experience for everyone involved, especially for the children. When families separate, children often feel confused and scared about their future as they are forced to adapt to a new living situation.

Parents must take the time to talk to their children about the separation and explain why it is happening. It is also essential to let your children know that the break is not their fault and that both parents still love them.

Dreyer and Associates specialize in family mediation, helping families across the Fraser Valley get the best arrangement possible for all parties involved. As a family lawyer in Langley, we aim to ensure parents receive the guardianship role they deserve during separation. Learn more about our services by booking a consultation on our website.

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