REASONS TO KEEP TALKING WITH THE OTHER PARENT AFTER THE SPLIT!
Your kids will do better and be happier when they have the love and support of both parents, even if it's from two different houses. Your kids need to see that you can talk with respect to each other. Remember - that's their mom or dad you're talking to and they love that parent!
Be involved in your kids' lives. Staying in communication means you know what your kids are up to, even when they're with the other parent.
Regular communication can help you keep little misunderstandings from becoming big conflicts. Make sure your kids know they did not cause the split. They will need to hear this over and over. Counseling may help your kids deal with issues. Keep in mind that your kids might want to talk to someone other than their parents about these things.
Be honest about what has happened or is happening in the family. Make sure to think about what your kids can understand at their age and explain it at their level.
Stress how much you both still love your kids and that you will always be there for them.
What you say to your kids about this split-up of the family has a big impact on the memories they have of this time. You as the adult may be going through a very emotional time. Remember how much more emotional it can be for your child.
THINGS THAT YOU SHOULD TELL YOUR KIDS!!
Don't say bad things about the other parent to your kids or to others when your kids can hear.
Don't tell your kids that you are not receiving child support if you are supposed to be. This will only increase their feelings of abandonment.
Don't tell your kids about your troubles, pain and anger. Although your kids may be willing to listen and want to help you, it will not help them. Get help from other adults and professionals, and let your kids just be kids.
