What Are The Top 3 Mistakes Parents Make in Divorce?
October 28, 2024 | General Divorce
By: Chad Layton, Esq.
“A child’s shoulders were not built to carry the weight of their parents’ choices.” 
Due to the emotions involved in ending your marriage, it can be difficult to consciously prioritize the needs of your children. Children, in some instances, can pay a high emotional cost leading up to and during a divorce. We know that you do not want your children to unintentionally get caught in parental crossfire.
At our office, we work with you to help you create a different, healthier divorce process and experience for your family.
What are the Top 3 Mistakes That Parents Make in Divorce?
- Making Your Child the Mediator – Oftentimes, in co-parenting, one party will send a child with a message for the other parent. “Tell your mom, that it is none of her business.” “Make sure your dad doesn’t look at your phone or tablet.” These requests may seem harmless, but creating this habit can lead to children feeling like it’s their job to be the middleman.
- Providing Details to Your Child – The intimate details of your relationship and divorce are not meant for young ears. Be careful not to share private details about your relationship with your spouse with your children. No matter if they are 5 or 15, they are not ready to hear this type of communication.
- Making Your Co-Parent the Enemy – Your children are watching you. We all know this as parents, but sometimes we forget. The days are long, I get it. Try to remind yourself that your children are intently watching you and learning how to be in a relationship with others based upon what they see from you. If you speak negatively consistently regarding your spouse in the presence of your child, ultimately, he or she and their future relationships may suffer.
I hope that this helps you, or someone that you know, to reduce the negative consequences of divorce on their minor children.
If you, or a friend of yours, has questions about out of court divorce options, that include divorce mediation, or collaborative divorce in Palm Beach County, we are here to help.
Helpful Resources:
Mindful Divorce Services – Fixed Fees