This, of course, is problematic in any family trying to raise socially, emotionally and spiritually healthy children. However, it is especially dangerous if that family is facing the challenges of divorce or separation.  Think about your parent-child communication skills and rapport. If they’re not optimal before discussions about divorce or family lifestyle, changes, STOP! Get support and insight first. Because the likeliness of a peaceful, successful outcome is dramatically jeopardized.More than ever before, parents need to create a bond of trust and support with their children when the family is facing any level of upheaval.  Is your respectful bond and trust broken or tenuous? Children are much more likely to feel abandoned, neglected and fearful about their safety and security in the face of separation of any kind.

Happily, it is never too late to bridge that gap and start authentic communication with your children. Honesty is always important in any parent-child relationship. But it becomes extremely significant at this time. Of course, all communication must be age-appropriate. And these talks are never a license for a dumping session about your soon-to-be former spouse.

Don’t Air Your Dirty Laundry With the Children

Whining, complaining, sarcasm, disrespect and related behaviors are not healthy forms of communication, especially with sensitive children.  They don’t want you to air your dirty laundry with them. They want to feel safe, loved, secure and supported as they move ahead. Especially when moving into a transition in life they did not desire or create. Insulting or criticizing their other parent affects them to their core. Your children are innocent and many parents need to remind themselves of this fact again and again.

There has never been a better time than now to boost your level of communication with your children, regardless of your marital status. Share some of your own feelings and experiences with life’s challenges before you start asking them questions about their life. Knowing that you personally deal with fears, anxieties, doubts and related emotions encourages your children to talk about issues they are experiencing. It makes them feel more okay about their own insecurities. And they’re likely to talk more frankly with you about challenges they face in all facets of their life.

Take advantage of this reminder. Make sincere communication with your children a regular part of your family life. You will never regret it. Plus you’ll reap surprising rewards in the months and years ahead! 

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Rosalind Sedacca, CDC is the founder of the Child-Centered Divorce Network, a Divorce & Co-Parenting Coach and author of the acclaimed e-book, How Do I Tell the Kids About the Divorce? A Create-a-Storybook Guide to Preparing Your Children — With Love! To get her advice, coaching services, programs, e-courses and other valuable resources on divorce and co-parenting, visit: http://www.childcentereddivorce.com