by Travers & Travers | Oct 9, 2022 | Child Issues

Divorce can be a difficult period of adjustment for families with children. As a divorced father, you may be dealing with feelings of frustration and resentment, especially if you cannot spend as much time with your children as you would like.

You can take steps to strengthen your bond with your kids and build a healthy co-parenting relationship with your former spouse.

Handling difficult emotions

Although it is normal to feel hurt and upset after a divorce, it can be helpful to separate your emotions from your behavior as a father. For example, complaining about your former spouse could make your children feel uncomfortable and cause further conflict. Instead, you can share your feelings with a therapist or close confidant and focus on the well-being of your children when you spend time with them. It is also important to give your children space and take things slowly if you need to work on rebuilding your relationship with them.

Maintaining family bonds

Developing a functional co-parenting relationship with your former spouse can help reduce conflicts so you can focus on raising your kids. You can discuss and establish expectations regarding schedules and childcare. Possible topics to explore include school responsibilities, nutrition and discipline. If you and your ex-spouse are on the same page, you can co-parent as a team. Respectful treatment and a willingness to compromise can help foster a more harmonious discussion.

Parenting after divorce can be challenging, especially for fathers who tend to have less time with their children. You can make an effort to resolve conflicts with your ex-spouse and cultivate strong relationships with your kids.