As a counselor who works with children at Life Skills Resource Group Orlando, I am aware that at the top of many children’s holiday wish list is a wish that their parents will get back together. Of course that’s not likely to happen for most children of divorce, so the holidays are a difficult time. Because the holidays are often associated with past memories of time spent with family, a holiday season after divorce presents a new world of change to a child. Traditions are disrupted and feelings of security and happiness can be turned upside down. However, there are some things parents can do to help their child experience the joy of the holiday season despite their divorce.
Communication and understanding is one of the most important things a parent can offer their child during this time. Children may have very negative feelings about the holidays after a divorce, so a parent must communicate to their child that it’s okay to have those feelings. Parents may feel guilty about their divorce, especially during the holidays, and as a result they avoid talking with their child about their negative feelings. But a parent must tell their child that it’s okay to feel the way they do and that the sadness they feel is normal. Talking with your child about their feelings and validating those feelings is the best gift you can give your child during the holidays.
Another gift you can give your child is to make every effort to get along with your ex-spouse. A child’s adjustment to a divorce is usually connected to how well the ex-spouses have adjusted. Although every family has stress during the holidays, the stress on a divorced family can be severe, so it takes extra effort to take the high road and avoid disagreements with your ex- spouse. The Orlando counselors at Life Skills Resource Group can help you and your child learn ways to cope with divorce and the stress of the holidays. Please feel free to contact me or any of the qualified counselors at Life Skills Resource Group Orlando by visiting Our Team page. Amy
To read more about Amy Smith’s work at Life Skills Resource Group
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