When you and your spouse decided to divorce, one of your biggest concerns was likely how your children would react to this significant change in their lives. Although sharing parenting time can take time to get used to, it is a common experience for many families.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2019, 746,971 couples in the U.S. either got divorced or annulled their marriages. As your children get used to splitting time with both their parents, there are things you can do to help them cope with living in two households.
Dedicate individual rooms or spaces
Your children should have either their own rooms or their own spaces in both households. This can help your children feel less like they are living in a temporary residence instead of a permanent home following your divorce.
Keep clothes and toys at both houses
Your children should have clothes and toys in each household. If your children want to take things back and forth between both houses, do not prevent them from doing this.
Make pickups and drop-offs cordial
When you pick up or drop off your children, make any conversations you have with your ex cordial and respectful. If you have an issue to discuss with your former spouse, save it for a time when your children are not around.
Right at first, your children may struggle to split their time between two households. But splitting parenting time can help your children feel secure in their relationships with both of their parents.