Divorce can be a challenging experience for children partially because it usually involves one or both parents moving out of the marital home. Ensuring that children feel comfortable and secure in their new arrangements is crucial for their emotional well-being.
If you’re a parent who has moved out of your marital home, it’s important to find ways to make the children feel more comfortable in your new home. The following suggestions may be beneficial during the transition phase after your divorce.
Establish a consistent routine
One of the most effective ways to help children feel comfortable is by establishing a consistent routine. Consistency provides a sense of stability and predictability, which can be very reassuring during times of change. Try to have as much consistency as is reasonably possible between homes, such as a shared bedtime or afterschool routine.
Create a welcoming environment
Creating a welcoming and familiar environment in the new home can help children feel more at ease. Allow them to have a say in decorating their space. You can do this by allowing them to choose the paint color for their room or pick out bedding and decorations. Having a personal space that feels like their own can make the new home feel more like a second home rather than a place they visit.
Maintain positive relationships
It’s generally important to foster and maintain positive relationships with both parents. Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the children, as this can create additional stress and confusion. If appropriate, encourage regular contact with the other parent, including phone calls, video chats or in-person visits, depending on your custody arrangements.
Keep familiar traditions
Keeping familiar traditions can provide a sense of continuity and comfort. Whether it’s a weekly movie night, Sunday breakfast or holiday traditions, maintaining these rituals can help children understand that while some things have changed, others have remained the same.
Parents can also make transitions between homes easier by establishing a solid parenting plan as quickly as possible. This document should outline the parenting time schedule, any parental guidelines and all parenting responsibilities.