By Connie Hornyak Children whose parents are going through a divorce often feel responsible for their parents’ unhappiness. They sometimes believe that they must have done something to cause the divorce. As one child put it, ”I wish I could go to a new family so my Mom and Dad could be happy again”. Most children whose parents divorce find themselves torn in their … [Read more...] about The Best Interest of the Child
Blog
Adult Children of Divorce
By Carol Hughes, Ph.D, LMFT How would it benefit your adult children to speak with a Child Specialist during your Collaborative Divorce Process? How would it benefit you, their parents? Research indicates that divorce is life’s second highest stressor, second only to the death of a loved one. If this is true, why is it so common for divorcing parents to assume that their adult … [Read more...] about Adult Children of Divorce
Dating as a Single Parent
By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D What are the qualities that a single parent should look for in someone they are deciding to date? Playful, light and fun with kids. (Kids have an innate instinct about people.) WatchDoesn’t try to make the kids like activities they “should” like. Will accept a child’s declining to participate in an activity that he/she likes. Open to learning about … [Read more...] about Dating as a Single Parent
Ten Tips to Help your child through Divorce
By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Helping your child through your divorce may be one of the most difficult tasks you will ever face as a parent. The following is a brief list of practical tips that can help as you walk through this difficult time with your child. 1. Be honest. Don’t lead your child to believe “dad’s away on business” or “everything is going to be wonderful”. Children are very … [Read more...] about Ten Tips to Help your child through Divorce
How Can I Tell if my Child needs Therapy?
By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Many adults now acknowledge the benefit of a supportive professional as they face the challenges a divorce inevitably brings. But many parents are unsure at what point their child may be exhibiting signs that indicate a need for professional counseling.Many of these signs are similar to the symptoms adults experience when undergoing severe stress. * Sleep … [Read more...] about How Can I Tell if my Child needs Therapy?
Single Parenting through the Holidays
By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Holidays after a divorce can be very difficult. Holidays with children after a divorce can be worse, even terrifying. Whether this is “your year” with the children or not, facing the holidays and knowing that they will be different from previous years can be challenging. The following are some suggestions to help single parents make the most of the … [Read more...] about Single Parenting through the Holidays
Single Parenting in the Summer
By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D During the school year it can be difficult enough for single parents to keep kids cared for and out of trouble, but when summer arrives and school activities are no longer available, the challenge becomes even more complicated. Many single parents are left with the dilemma of being happy about extra time with their children but also the concern about what to do … [Read more...] about Single Parenting in the Summer
Rights of Children of Divorce
By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Children have the right to: Continue to love both parents without guilt or disapproval (subtle or overt) by either parent or other relatives.Be repeatedly reassured that the divorce is not their fault.Be reassured they are safe and their needs will be provided for.Have a special place for their own belongings at both parents’ residences.Visit both parents regardless … [Read more...] about Rights of Children of Divorce
