3 Tips for Dads Coping with Divorce

The famous writer Margaret Atwood had a divorce quote, which went like this: 

“A divorce is like an amputation: you survive it, but there’s less of you.”

Florida’s Visitation and Custody Rights

If it can be called a benefit, the Jacksonville court system, in conjunction with the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, recognizes that both the mother AND the father are to be given the same amount of consideration in the parenting plan of their off-springs. This means that both parents need to work with each other for the mental and physical welfare of the child.  Click here to learn more about child custody issues in Florida.

Sharing the rights and parental responsibilities ensures a healthier environment for the children and their growth. Remember dad: you are not a part-time father when there is a divorce. Continue to spend as much emotional time with your children as you did prior to the divorce.

A percentage of divorced fathers will find themselves adhering to a visitation schedule, which is set-up by Florida's courts or they will remain the custodial parent. Each scenario comes equipped with its own set of challenges in allowing each child to feel needed and not made to feel guilty.

Divorced fathers adjust better by remembering that they were not perfect as a parent when they were one family. Therefore, due to a divorce, they still are not perfect, but their love will seal the cracks.

Tip #1 - Get Your Children Involved in Your Favorite Activities

Relax post-divorced fathers, children are watching you and their mom, because they want both of you to be happy. This simply means that whatever activities you enjoyed before divorce, such as golfing, walking or running, continue to engage in these activities for your wellbeing. Invite the children to join in, if they weren't already involved and you will be surprised to learn, that children receive joy when you are enjoying yourself.

Tip # 2 - Make Your House a Home

With children involved in a divorce, it is vital to adhere to visitation schedules. When children arrive at your home, make sure that it is not a man cave. They need a room in their second home that they can call their own and which contain their personal momentums to feel safe. Newly divorced men are also encouraged to seek help from support groups, which are located throughout the Jacksonville area.

Tip #3 - Keep Communication Lines Open Among All Parties

Children require an open communication from both parents. You should continue to reassure the child(ren) that they remain a very important part of their lives. Communicating with children after a divorce will not always be easy, however, do not stop, continue to try different communication methods, other than texting.

Dad, continue to keep an open communication line with your ex and keep conversations as civil as possible, especially around the children because they love both of you. Remember Dad, Jacksonville, Florida, laws are as much on your side as your former spouse and that with time, life will work out for all involved.

If you need help, just ask

Many people are not quite sure when to get an attorney involved, but if you would like to learn more about parenting after divorce, contact our family law firm today. Our family law specialists in Jacksonville, Florida, will help guide you through the tough waters ahead.

By Kenny Leigh

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