It’s a parents responsibility to make decisions according to what will support and promote their child’s best interest. It shouldn’t be a battle between two adults while the child sits in the middle, seen as a prize to be won. Parents can become so absorbed with their own battles that they forget the impacts on their children.
Children NEED stability in relationships –They should have stability in thier relationship with mum and with dad, and stability in the relationship between their parents. Your child needs to know that mum and dad can speak to each other with some level of civility. They need to know that it’s ok for them to speak about each parent in a positive way with the other parent.
What the parent WANTS doesn’t matter – Focus on what your child needs, not what you want. The best interests of the child are the most important consideration when making decisions. Be open minded when thinking about different options, arrangements may not be perfect, but can you deal with them.
Parents SHOULDN’T have expectations – Whilst you might have an idea of you would like a situation to go, your child may have a completely different reaction to what you thought, In that moment you must remember that your child is their own person with their own opinions and will react how they see fit, they should never be used as a pawn in the game of separation or family dispute but respected for, listened to and allowed their own feelings and thoughts on any situation whether or not their thoughts agree with yours.
Children have the right to be safe, treated with affection, educated, have medical care, and be protected from cruelty and abuse. Understanding your parental responsibility is crucial for ensuring that you can effectively contribute to their child’s welfare, regardless of your relationship status. By grasping the principles of shared responsibility parents can navigate matters more effectively and work towards arrangements that support their child’s well-being and stability.
