As you embark on this new stage of life, you might be wondering what the worst age for divorce for children might be. While some divorces are unavoidable, some of this research might help you determine the worst age for your children to experience your divorce.
How Divorce Affects Children of Different Age Groups
What is the worst age for a child to go through a divorce? In this article, we take a look at some of the effects of divorce on children by age.
Infant/Baby 0-3 Years
- Become more fussy and inconsolable
- Become clingy or insecure, especially around new people
- Miss developmental milestones
Preschool 3-5 Years
- Uncertainty
- Blaming themselves
- Confusion
School Age 6-12 Years
- Blaming themselves
- Depression
- Become withdrawn
- Increased anxiety
- Uncommunicative
Teenagers
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Increased negative behaviors, such as early sexual activity or drug use
Is There a “Good” Age for Divorce for Children?
By far, the effects of divorce on school-age children tend to be among the worst. However, teenagers tend to take the divorce a little better when adequately supported. Most teenagers can see the underlying turmoil that led to the divorce in the first place. There are occasions when the split might bring some relief to your teenager. Teenagers are known to be self-involved. Their most significant concern will be how the divorce affects their lives rather than yours. They will want to know if they have to switch schools or change their living situation. As long as you provide a solid plan and stick to it, most teenagers will accept the new situation quickly.
Helping Children of All Ages Cope with the Divorce
What age group does divorce affect the most? It depends on how you handle it. As you look at the impact of divorce on children by age, you see there is never an ideal time to make this change. However, your response can mitigate the effects of a divorce on your child, regardless of age. Here are a few tips to help you out.
Infant/Baby 0-3 Years
- Maintain a consistent routine
- Provide plenty of love and comfort
- Expose the child to new, safe people
Preschool 3-5 Years
- Maintain a consistent routine
- Be civil with your ex-spouse, especially in front of children
- Never bad-mouth the other parent to or in front of your child
- Read books about divorce with child
- Seek professional help when needed
School Age 6-12 Years
- Maintain a consistent routine
- Listen to their feelings
- Keep both parents active in the child’s life
- Remain civil and don’t bad-mouth the parent to your child
- Seek professional help when needed
Teenagers
- Listen to their feelings
- Stay active in what’s essential to your teen
- Maintain civility and co-parent together
- Seek professional help when needed
Find A Divorce Lawyer Near Me
No matter what the child’s age, when parents divorce, there are going to be problems. How does a divorce affect children of different ages? Everything depends upon how you handle the situation. With the proper support on your side, you can create a seamless transition for your child. Thomas Ramunda Jr. is an experienced family lawyer in Colorado who is ready to take your case so you can focus on your children. Contact South Denver Law today for your consultation.
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