Introducing a New Home After DivorceDivorce introduces a lot of change into the lives of the people who are affected by it. And it is usually true that the people most affected by divorce—and thus by the change it brings—are children. When divorcing parents create an agreement that incorporates joint custody, it is an indication that the parents want to help their children’s adjustment to their new lives go as smoothly as possible. And when the changes brought on by divorce involve the introduction of a second home for the children involved, it may be tempting for the divorcing parents to believe that their work is done as it regards helping their children adjust to their new and different living situation.

But parents should proceed cautiously. When one parent lives in a new location, the children will very likely feel confused, perhaps even troubled, by the introduction of a new environment on top of the absence of one parent from the more familiar home. But, of course, change in and of itself does not have to be a bad thing. With a little time, attention, and effort, parents can turn the introduction of a new home for their children into a positive development.

Helpful Recommendations For A Smooth Transition

Here are some helpful recommendations to consider, if you find yourself in a situation that involves your children having to become accustomed to your new place, or your divorced partner’s:

  1. Give your children some autonomy to make their new place special for them. If you are buying furniture or painting walls, let your children help to determine what goes into the space and what color to paint the walls.
  2. Encourage familiarity in the new place. Children will adjust better when the excitement of new environs is balanced with familiar belongings.
  3. If you are the parent who is remaining in the more familiar location, resist the temptation of competing with your ex. Prioritizing your children’s well-being means that you may have to tamp down your desire to prove to your children that you’re the “cooler” parent. Empathize with your kids, and see their new situation from their perspectives, as well as from yours.
  4. Be thoughtful about what your children pack for their visits to the new home. You can alleviate stress and save time by supplying the new house with toiletries, changes of clothes, DVDs, etc.
  5. Above all, find the energy to work with your ex to ensure that your children are receiving consistent messages from you. This will give them a sense of stability and predictability.

For more comprehensive assistance with these issues, consider contacting AMS Mediation at 1- 952-252-1492.

A MESSAGE FROM AMS, LLC - RE: COVID-19

The safety of clients, ourselves, and colleagues is our top priority while we remain available to assist you as you navigate the new and uncharted territory caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

 

Offering All Services Virtually

While providing virtual ADR services was not part of our plan, we have made the necessary accommodations to ensure we can continue to serve our clients during these unsettling times. All services are currently available through virtually. We are using Zoom for videoconferencing. We suggest that you download this app to your phone or the program to your computer at https://zoom.us/download.

 

Limited In-Person Services

We have resumed limited in-person services for sessions with 1 or 2 participants scheduled for a maximum of 2 hours. Masks are required in our building and in session. Availability is subject to change based on local regulations and CDC guidelines.

 

Office Hours

Our office hours remain the same and we remain available by phone and email. The main office number is 952.252.1492. Gabe can be reached via email at gabe@amsmediationplus.com.

 

New Clients Welcome

We offer free 1-hour divorce consultations via Zoom. Potential PC and PTE clients are invited to schedule a free 15-minute phone call. Please call 952.252.1492 to set up an appointment. We are here to help!

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we all continue to adapt to these rapidly changing and chaotic times. Stay strong, stay resilient, and stay healthy!

 

Sincerely,
Amber Serwat & Gabe Frye
ADR Professional & ADR Assistant

Divorce Mediation & Dispute Resolution Services - Amber Serwat Mediation

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