Kids Corner: Staying Connected with Family and Friends
Divorce changes family dynamics, but it doesn’t change the love and connection between kids and their parents. It can take time to adjust to new routines, living arrangements, and relationships, but with effort and communication, kids can maintain strong, healthy connections with parents, siblings, and friends.
Staying Close to Both Parents
After a divorce, kids may split time between two homes or spend most of their time with one parent. Either way, it’s important to find ways to stay connected with both parents, even when they’re not physically together.
💬 Keep in touch daily – A quick phone call, text, or video chat can help kids feel connected to a parent they aren’t with that day.
📅 Plan special time together – Whether it’s a movie night, cooking a favorite meal, or playing a game, setting aside quality time can strengthen relationships.
📝 Share life updates – Sending pictures, messages, or even a letter about exciting school events or achievements helps both parents feel involved.
🏡 Make both homes feel like home – Having personal items (clothes, books, stuffed animals) at both houses can create comfort and stability.
If a child feels closer to one parent than the other, that’s okay—it’s normal for relationships to shift after a divorce. But keeping communication open with both parents can make the transition smoother.
How to Keep in Touch with a Long-Distance Parent
If one parent moves far away, staying connected requires extra effort. Here are some ways to keep the bond strong:
📱 Schedule regular calls or video chats – A set time each week can make staying in touch easier.
🎮 Play games together online – Video games, word puzzles, or trivia apps can be a fun way to interact.
📦 Send letters, photos, or care packages – A handwritten note or small gift can mean a lot.
🗓 Plan visits in advance – Knowing when the next visit will happen can make time apart feel less stressful.
Strengthening Sibling Bonds
- Calling or texting regularly.
- Planning activities when they are together.
- Creating new traditions (e.g., “Sibling Movie Night” once a month).
- Advocating to spend time together when possible.
Even if there’s some sibling tension, having a strong relationship can provide comfort and stability through all the changes.
Talking to Friends About Divorce
Some kids find it easy to talk about their parents’ divorce, while others don’t know what to say. If friends ask questions, a simple response like:
“Yeah, my parents are divorced now, and I’m adjusting. It’s different, but I’m doing okay.”
It’s okay to share as much or as little as feels comfortable. Friends who are supportive and understanding can be great listeners.
Dealing with Social Changes
- Move to a new school or neighborhood.
- Have a busier schedule with different custody arrangements.
- Feel withdrawn or less social because of stress.
If friendships feel strained, kids can try: Making time to see or call friends even if schedules are different. Talking to close friends about what’s going on for extra support. Joining clubs or sports to meet new people. Remember, true friends will stick around—and new friendships can always be made.
Final Thought
Divorce changes family routines, but strong relationships can still thrive with effort and communication. Staying close to both parents, maintaining strong sibling bonds, and keeping supportive friendships can make all the difference in adjusting to a new normal. No matter what changes, kids are never alone—remind them they are always loved. ❤️