Many parent worry about their children during a divorce. How will the divorce effect them? What actions will should the parent take to assist the child through the divorce? What impact does arguing between the parties have on the children? What can I do if my former spouse is creating conflict or poisoning my child(ren) against me?
There are many schools of thought and research done to ascertain what a parent should/should not do and say to the other parent and child. No matter what theory of child rearing to which you prescribe, there are basic needs a child has:
to feel part of a family
to be loved for who the child is rather than the child's actions
have a wanted and welcome environment
right to express all feelings whether positive or negative
right to experience all feelings whether positive or negative
right to be treated respectfully at all times
Research has shown that children can easily adapt to the various routines/rules of both parent's households as long as the rules/routines are consistent. Children not only need but want a relationship with the other parent. Both parents should encourage a relationship with the other parent and any stepparents. You must encourage visitation and interaction with the other parent through your words and actions.