Helping Grandchildren Through a Divorce

There are countless articles, books, and resources available to parents interested in learning how to make the divorce process as easy on their children as possible. But what about grandparents who want to help? Grandparents play an important role in a child’s life, and many have expressed their desire to help their grandchildren through a divorce in any way they can.

The following are just some of the ways a grandparent can help his/her grandchild during a divorce:

• Help create a sense of stability. Studies show that children who experienced stability during a divorce adapted much better to the changes taking place in their life. Staying in the same home, participating in the same activities, and continuing at the same school can make a huge difference.
• Offer help, but don’t take over. Let the child’s parents make the decisions, and just be there to help when you’re needed. If you try to take control of the situation you could cause even more conflict in the home. There are so many ways you can help, even just offering to take your grandchildren for a night can give the parents a chance to take some time for themselves.
• Don’t pry, just listen. Ask your grandchildren how they are doing and if they want to talk about what they are going through. If they feel like talking they will. If not, then let it be. They may not feel ready to talk about the divorce yet.
• Don’t disparage either parent. Even if you hate the person your son or daughter married, never say anything mean, rude, or disparaging about them in front of your grandchildren. It is important that your grandchildren respect their parents and have good relationships with both of them.
• Create unique relationships with each of your grandchildren. Every child is different, which means the feelings, emotions, and needs of each child will be different. Find a way to connect with each of your grandchildren. Having a strong relationship with a grandparent is highly beneficial to the child.

If you are interested in learning more about the ways you can help your grandchildren during or after a divorce, please feel free to contact the office today speak with Jacksonville family law attorney Jason Hutchinson!