Maintaining Emotional Bond Between Divorced Parents and Kids
Casal dels Infants – Maintaining emotional bond with children after a divorce is crucial, even when parents no longer live together. Divorce is often viewed as the end of an intact family, but it does not mean that a parent’s love for their child ends. Clinical Psychologist Maria Fionna Callista emphasizes that the bond between parents and children can still be preserved, even if they are not living together. Here are five ways parents can maintain emotional closeness with their children after a divorce.
When spending time with your child, ensure that you are fully present. This means not just sitting near them but giving them your full attention. Make the most of your time together, especially since your time with your child after divorce is often limited.
“When you meet with your child, make sure you are 100% present, both physically and emotionally. Don’t be distracted by your phone or work,” Fionna said.
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If meeting in person is not possible, it’s important to keep the relationship alive through other means. This is also a way for parents to stay involved in their child’s development. “If you can’t meet, maintain the relationship quality through communication, such as phone or video calls,” Fionna explained.
Providing attention doesn’t always have to involve gifts or grand gestures. Consistency and care amidst your busy schedule are more meaningful to children. Therefore, make time to check in on your child and show interest in what they are doing.
“Show consistency as a parent in maintaining closeness and giving attention amidst your busyness. This way, the child won’t feel like they’ve lost one of their parents,” Fionna advised.
A parent’s presence during important moments will leave a lasting memory for the child, even if they no longer live together. “The most memorable moments for a child are when their parents are present on important days, such as their birthday or when they participate in a competition,” Fionna said. She mentioned that such moments could become tangible support from their parents, stored in a child’s core memory.
Divorce does not have to erase family traditions. Continuing small things you did together can help create a sense of safety and emotional connection.
“Even after divorce, it’s good to keep these traditions. For example, if there’s a birthday tradition of blowing out candles together or dining at a restaurant,” Fionna concluded.
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