Steven Wade is a family law advisor (McKenzie Friend) with nearly 20 years of experience helping people represent themselves in court. Having been through the system personally and supported thousands of others since, he knows what it’s like to face the stress, confusion, and pressure of doing it alone. This blog shares practical insights that empower you to take control of your case — without the legal jargon or the hefty solicitor’s bill.
Children play parents off against each other
Family Law Assistance
The only alternative to a solicitor.
Its not uncommon for children to play their parents off against each other.
Many people are going through the family court with divorce and child arrangement matters. You may have separated recently but even if it has been a while you have probably experienced this.
It is not nice.
You decide to break up with your partner and the children don’t get a say in it as we’re doing what we think is best for everyone right. We struggle as adults to deal with separation and divorce so imagine how it affects a child!
A child doesn’t just fall out of love with a parent so when we separate, we’re asking them without realizing to take a side.
You may find that one person is scorned so little digs and comments are made. I put my hands up I was terrible for saying things about my kids dad years ago and then I just thought what your doing is cruel! No matter how I feel he is still their dad!
By putting our little ones in this situation, they can be made to feel like they need to say one thing to mum and one thing to dad. It can cause a lot of upset and I have definitely been here with my children.
It can also cause a lot more animosity and further conflict. At Family Law Assistance we guide our clients with tips to try and make it easier for themselves and for the children and keep you on the railroad.
Communication is key! Easier said then done I know. But if you can communicate you could potentially stop there being a tit for tat situation.
My daughters are older now so the playing off against each other is not so bad, but I have witnessed the problems that CAN be caused by parents just not communicating. If you can communicate you can stop your child thinking that they must take sides.
If you really cannot communicate then have a contact book or a specific email to deal with all thing’s children!! The problem with messages is they can be misconstrued, so maybe try voice notes.
Keep child focused when you are dealing with issues. your child has two parents, and your child has the right to love both of you. If you find you little ones displaying behavior of playing you off against each other then take a step back and make sure you are not the one fueling it.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Still need some help? Here’s what to do next…
About the author…
[trustindex no-registration=google]