Coping with it: So your child wants to move in with your ex ...

Here are some tips for handling this sticky situation. Stephanie Burchell, Ph.D., is a licensed marriage and family therapist from Dallas Dr. Michelle New is a clinical child psychologist and founder of Kentlands Kids, a private practice in Gaithersburg, Md.

1. Don't badmouth the other parent

» "Avoid painting a picture of your child's other parent as a less desirable person. Your child will always feel a strong sense of love and loyalty to you both. Don't place your child in a position where they feel pressure to choose one parent or the other," Burchell said.

2. Cover your legal bases

» "Discuss this with your lawyer. If your child goes to live with a non-custodial parent, be sure you are covered legally and that the other parent has the right to consent to everything from school trips to medical procedures," New said.

3. Recognize the other parent's importance

» "Give your child permission to have a loving, satisfying relationship with their other parent. Although a divorce may be final, the job to serve as a positive and flexible co-parent remains over the course of the child's life," Burchell said.

4. Remain active in the child's life

» "Be sure to stick to your visitation rights and visit and call your child as often as you can," New said.

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