There’s a lot in life that can change the way your family views itself. A new brother or sister, a loss of a grandparent, parents divorcing and maybe even remarrying – these are all things that might disrupt the way you live. Most of all, they mean a world of difference for your children, and any change in the family dynamic can affect kids.
Of course, changes in the family dynamic don’t prevent kids from growing up to have good lives, no matter how much that feels untrue right now. It just takes a little more careful navigation to make sure everyone is OK and on the same page. With that in mind, keep a look out for the changes below.
Their Grades May Suffer
With everything going on at home, kids can find it hard to focus in school. As such, their grades might start dropping, or they may miss a few homework assignments, and their teacher ends up calling you in.
This can be one of the most worrying things to happen when your family dynamic is changing, but it’s not as bad as it’s often made out to be. After all, your child might just need a bit more academic support, such as a tutor or after-school club sessions.
They May Pick Up Bad Habits
Bad habits can be numerous, and we all have one or two of our own. However, when kids are acting out and want a bit of attention, they may start fighting, abusing substances, and even falling into criminal behaviors like stealing.
These need to be stamped out as soon as possible. In all cases, taking your child to see a therapist can be helpful; professional mental health advocates can help you and your child get to the root of the issue, which means you can then come up with a solution.
You Might Argue More Often When
Arguing is common when the family dynamic is changing. It’s what happens when emotions boil over and we have no healthy outlets to use. However, you shouldn’t blame each other for these arguments occurring. If you’re in a situation where you’re looking into divorce laws adultery-wise, it’s common for a child’s feelings of anger and resentment to crop up.
They might not want you and your partner to split up, and they’re not shy about letting you know that. But, both of you are suffering emotionally here, and neither of you knows what’s going to happen next.
It’s OK to admit you’re just as scared and confused as they are. Admitting it and opening up to your child (sparing them gruesome details or negative input on their other parent) can help them feel understood and like they can talk to you about their feelings.
They Might Start Keeping Secrets
It’s not nice to think that your child is keeping things from you, but this happens even when family life hasn’t changed. Sometimes your child might just believe you’re better off not knowing something. That’s why honest talks are so important. The more you sit down and create a safe space for this, the better.
Recap: The Family Dynamic Can Affect Kids
When kids don’t know what else to do, they can start acting out. Changes in family dynamics take some getting used to!
Do you have any other tips? Leave a comment and let us know.
