Parents in Arizona and elsewhere may believe that it is better to stay married for the sake of their children. However, it is usually better to end a toxic relationship than subject a son or daughter to constant conflict. If a divorce does take place, parents should make sure that the children don’t blame themselves for it. It is also important that the kids know that they will be loved regardless of how their parents feel about each other.
Furthermore, kids should be allowed to have relationships with both of their parents. Ideally, parents will do whatever they can to provide as much stability as possible as the divorce process takes place. For instance, children should be kept in the same school district or close to friends and extended family members. Children should also be allowed to provide input into any changes that occur in their lives.
Parents should be sure that they are not saying anything negative about each other around their kids. In many cases, it looks bad when parents put each other down. This may be an especially bad look if the child finds out that the other parent doesn’t do the things of which he or she is accused. Therefore, it is generally better to stay quiet around the kids regardless of how a person feels.
After a divorce, a noncustodial parent may be required to provide child support or other assistance to the custodial parent. However, children also benefit from the emotional support that a mother or father can provide. Therefore, both parents will ideally work together to ensure that a child is able to have a relationship with them. Parenting plans may be negotiated in private, during mediation sessions or through a formal court order.
