How to Help a Child Transition to Living in Two Homes

 Posted on September 04, 2018 in Family Law

If you are in the divorce process or recently finalized your divorce, you may be concerned about how your child will transition to living in two homes. Although your child may be anxious and overwhelmed at first, there are some strategies you can use to help make the transition easier and more comfortable. These tips include:

Establish Routines

Since stability is essential for children of divorced parents, it is crucial that you and your ex-spouse establish routines at each home. While the routines do not have to be exactly the same at each house, they should be similar. Your child should know how homework, meals, play, and bedtime work at each home.

Keep Essential Items at Each Home

It can be time-consuming and stressful for your child to have to pack up their essential items every time they switch homes. Therefore, it is wise to keep a set of essentials at your home and your ex-spouse’s home. By having toiletries, toys, art supplies, books, and other items at each home, going from one home to the next will be far easier.

Ensure Drop Off and Pick Up Is Cordial

Even if you do not get along with your ex, it is important to be cordial towards them every time you drop off and pick your child from their home. This will set a great example for your child and prevent any unnecessary stress or discomfort.

Create a Room in Each Home

If possible, your child should have their own room in each home. This way, they will feel like they belong at your home and their other parent’s home. If you or your ex do not have an extra bedroom for them, you can turn a basement, den, or another area into their own space.

Use a Calendar

Use a calendar to note when your child will live with you and when they will be living with their other parent. Allowing your child to see this calendar by keeping it on the fridge or another easy to see area can give them the chance to anticipate when they will be moving to each house so they can mentally prepare.

Contact Our Experienced DuPage County Divorce Lawyers

If you would like some more tips on how to help your child transition to living in two home or are seeking skilled legal representation for your divorce, contact DuPage County divorce lawyers at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices.

Source:

https://www.familyeducation.com/life/how-divorce-affects-children/two-parents-two-homes