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Children’s Mental Health and the Role of Parenting – Part 18: Parenting Through Change: Divorce, Moving, or Loss
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Life changes such as divorce, moving to a new home, or experiencing loss can deeply affect a child’s sense of security and stability.
🌱 Life changes such as divorce, moving to a new home, or experiencing loss can deeply affect a child’s sense of security and stability.
💬During these times, children often feel uncertainty, fear, or sadness,
and they rely on their parents to guide them through the emotional storm. How parents respond can make the difference between prolonged distress and healthy adjustment.
⚖️ The Emotional Impact of Change
Major transitions can leave children feeling powerless or confused.
They may worry about what the future holds or struggle to express their emotions.
- Divorce may create loyalty conflicts or fears of abandonment
- Moving often disrupts friendships and routines
- Loss can bring grief that children don’t yet know how to process
🛡 Providing Reassurance
One of the most important roles parents play during change is providing reassurance.
Reminding children that they are loved and cared for—no matter what—helps them feel secure even when circumstances shift.
🏡 Maintaining Routines
Consistency is a stabilising force.
Keeping regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and family rituals can help children feel grounded.
Familiar routines serve as an anchor when everything else seems uncertain.
💬 Encouraging Open Conversations
Children need space to talk about their feelings without judgment.
Parents can invite open conversations by asking gentle questions like:
“What worries you the most right now?”
“What would make you feel a little better?”
“What questions do you have about what’s happening?”
🌱 Modelling Healthy Coping
Children watch how their parents handle stress.
When parents demonstrate calmness, self-care, and healthy coping strategies, kids learn that it’s possible to navigate tough times without shutting down or giving up.
🌿 Final Thoughts 💞🌈
Change is inevitable, but emotional harm doesn’t have to be.
When parents offer reassurance, stability, and an open heart, children can learn resilience and adaptability.
With support, they discover that while change is hard, it can also be an opportunity for growth and strength.
