We all know that separation of parents is hard on kids, whatever may be the circumstances. When ‘happily married ever after’ is suddenly under the clouds and parents squabbling constantly, or damaging each other’s self esteem without a care for the children who may be listening to them, it would indicate a stormy path ahead for the children. The child’s reliable, safe plane of happiness goes into a tizzy. Often, even the most concerned parents become consumed by their emotional upset, and leave their children to figure out things themselves.

We, as parents, are responsible for these kinds of situations. There is no getting away from it. We have to, because as parents, it’s our responsibility to safeguard our children’s emotional wellbeing. So here are some dos and don’ts to help ease the tumultuous period:

It is important that you do not have your conflicts and issues in front of a child as far as possible.

If your child is listening to everything about your conflicts, then you’ll have to prepare your child by explaining that thing to her or him. Keep in mind that child’s mind can often escalate the problem or the extent of damage to far beyond what is actually is, so be frank and focused on what you are telling her. Tell him that you and your spouse need more time to think and sort out the problem and that he/she should not worry about anything till then.

Make sure to your child that even if you and your spouse may not see eye to eye, they will continue to keep his/her interest in mind, always. You will have to make sure that you show your love for her and that she is not going to lose in anyway. And will get her parents love. Don’t make any bad remarks about other parent to your child, whatever may be the situation.

Don’t make any comment that the conflicts between you and your spouse came only after the child was born, because children are very sensitive, and if they sense they are the cause of trouble between their parents, it may result in serious behavior problems.

At every level, be frank with your child as she needs enough time to understand what you are saying, and she needs time to come in terms with what happening.

We can’t help the situation, if the situation ends in divorce or separation, but try and ensure that the child’s routine is not deeply affected. Try and keep his/her interests in the forefront as much as possible. Be truthful to your older child if any, because older child can manipulate her parents, he needs as much as assurance as young child that his interests will be taken care of and that he must focus his mind on his studies and games etc.

It is absolutely vital to meet every commitment, and keep every promise you make. Be sensitive to what the child going through, then only you can help your child to face this situation.