Children of Divorce
Divorce is a physically, emotionally and financially draining experience for many people. Often times, many people forget that children have certain rights in these very adult conflicts. We present the following as a guide for those experiencing divorce with the hopes that they will assist all parties to focus on the most important aspect of any divorce - the children.
BILL OF RIGHTS FOR CHILDREN WHOSE PARENTS ARE SEPARATED OR DIVORCED
- The right not to be asked to "Choose Sides" between their parents.
- The right not to be told the details of bitter or nasty legal proceedings going on between their parents.
- The right not to be told "Bad Things" about the other parent's personality or character.
- The right to privacy when talking to either parent on the telephone.
- The right not to be cross-examined by one parent after spending time with the other parent.
- The right not to be asked to be a messenger from one parent to the other.
- The right not to be asked by one parent to tell the other parent untruths.
- The right not to be used as a confidant regarding legal proceedings between the parents.
- The right to express feelings, whatever those feelings may be.
- The right to choose not to express certain feelings.
- The right to be protected from parental warfare.
- The right not to be made to feel guilty for loving both parents.
The process of divorce can cause the strongest parent to harbor self-doubts and confusion. All parents have made and will make mistakes with their children. Continue to convey your strength as well as your love to your child.
