One of the hardest changes for children to handle when their parents are divorcing is learning how to live in two homes. For some, the transition day is filled with stress and conflicting emotions.
As a parent, it’s up to you to try to find ways to help your children remain as calm as possible on these transition days so they don’t dread them. These tips may help some parents, but not others so use them if they work for you.
1: Help them prepare for the transition
Some children may want a countdown to when it’s time to change houses. Younger children may need help with this. Older children might keep track of this on a phone or another device.
2: Keep the handover calm
Handover day should be calm, which means you shouldn’t try to cut things too close with the transition time. Once you and your ex meet for the transition, make sure you don’t try to discuss any contentious matters. Anything that might cause problems between you and your ex should be saved until you’re not around the children.
3: Give them time to decompress and adjust
The parent who’s receiving the children should ensure the kids have time to just relax when they get home. It might be tempting to celebrate the fact that the kids are back, but try to keep that low-key, such as having pizza and a movie at home.
One of the most important things you can do is get your parenting plan together. This is the backbone of the custody situation so you must ensure it’s set in a way that represents the needs of the children.