Are you a father who is recently divorced? Or, are you and your wife about to file for divorce? Either way, you're probably afraid of the divorce affecting your relationship with your children, especially if they are going to be living with their mother most of the time.
For most divorced dads, they shutter at the thought of not seeing their kids every day. They are afraid of becoming one of those divorce horror stories where they're alienated from their kids, or where their kids get older and no longer want to see them.
Since these concerns affect a lot of dads, especially the ones who've been the breadwinner and less present in their children's lives, we're going to give you some advice on how to successfully parent as a divorced dad. It is possible!
Avoid moving far away. You may be California dreaming right about now, but moving far away can be detrimental to your relationship with your kids. One of the best ways to maintain a quality relationship with them is to stay close to their home. If you can stay in the same school zone, it will make things easier. If your ex-wife needs you to watch the kids while she works, it's a bonus. You get extra kid time!
Be sensitive to your children's emotions. The divorce isn't only painful for you, it can be just as hard on your kids as their lives are turned upside-down. If you're not sure how to help your kids cope with the divorce, you can read books or see a therapist for help.
Pay extra attention to your children. During a divorce, your children need you more than ever before. Pay extra attention to them and spend lots of quality time with them. Make sure they know that you love them and the divorce is not their fault.
Know your obligations about child support. Assuming you're ordered to pay child support, make sure you fully understand your obligations. If you don't pay, your driver's license can be suspended, your wages can be garnished, your tax refund can be taken away, and you could be held in contempt of court. You can even be denied a U.S. passport if you owe more than $2,500 in arrears.
Date responsibly after divorce. When you're ready to date, be sure to do it when you don't have the kids. It's not fair to hire a babysitter on your weekend so you can go on a date with the beautiful blond in HR. Also, be fair to your dates; tell them the truth about your divorce and your children – there's no reason to hide it.
Looking for a Long Island divorce attorney to handle a family law matter? Contact our firm today for the support you need.