I’m Worried About the Impact of Divorce on My Kids. What Can I Do? 

 Posted on April 29, 2025 in Divorce

For many parents, the hardest part of divorce is worrying about how it will affect their children. Kids may not understand why their family structure is changing, and they often experience a wide range of emotions, from sadness and confusion to fear and anger. Fortunately, there are many concrete steps parents can take to reduce the emotional impact of divorce and help their children adjust in healthy ways.

At the Law Office of Ronald L. Hendrix, P.C., our Will County, IL divorce and child custody lawyer understands these concerns and works with parents to proactively protect kids during divorce. Call our firm today to learn more.

Four Strategies for Protecting Your Kids During Divorce

Every family is different, as is every child. That being said, children more or less have the same developmental needs: Stability, love, boundaries, and support. Here are some ways to provide those to your children during divorce.

Keep Communication Open and Age-Appropriate

Children need honesty, but they also need protection from adult-level conflict. Experts recommend that you tell your children about the divorce together, if possible, and keep the message simple and unified. Avoid blaming language. Instead of explaining who "caused" the divorce, focus on the fact that the family will change, but both parents still love the child deeply.

Encourage questions, and check in regularly. Children’s emotional responses may evolve over time. Psychologists emphasize that consistent, loving reassurance helps children feel secure — even when routines are disrupted.

Avoid Putting Kids in the Middle of Parenting Fights

One of the most damaging things parents can do during divorce is to involve children in adult disputes. This includes asking them to take sides, deliver messages, or report on the other parent. Instead:

• Use direct communication with your co-parent.

• Do not criticize the other parent in front of your children.

• Respect the parenting schedule, even when it is inconvenient.

The more civil and respectful your co-parenting relationship is, the more emotionally stable your child will feel.

Stick to Routines When Possible

Consistency gives kids a sense of control and safety. As much as possible, try to:

• Maintain familiar routines around school, meals, and bedtime.

• Support your child’s activities and social connections in both homes.

• Make transitions between homes predictable and calm.

Children do best when their day-to-day lives remain steady, even during major family changes.

Consider Divorce Counseling for Your Child — and Yourself

Therapy can be an invaluable resource. A child therapist can help your child process difficult emotions, while individual counseling can give you tools for parenting through conflict and change. Some families also benefit from family counseling, where everyone can talk openly in a safe space.

Choose the Right Legal Help to Protect Your Child During Divorce

Navigating divorce while protecting your children requires thoughtful legal guidance. Attorney Hendrix brings a unique blend of experience and compassion to every case. In addition to holding a law degree, he has a Master’s in guidance and counseling and is a court-appointed mediator, giving him special insight into what families need during emotionally charged times.

Contact a Naperville, IL Child Custody Lawyer Who Cares About Kids 

If you are considering divorce and are worried about how your children will cope, you do not have to face this alone. Call the Law Office of Ronald L. Hendrix, P.C. at 630-355-7776 to schedule your free consultation with a compassionate DuPage County, IL divorce attorney who understands the law — and the emotional dynamics at play. Together, we can make this transition as smooth and healthy as possible for your family.