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responsible for the family split. Parents need to be positive during exchanges,
keep a consistent schedule, and tell the kids that the divorce or split is not
their fault. Signs of distress include toileting and sleep problems.
Five to Ten Years
Kids at this age are entering school and forming relationships outside the
family. They may try to reunite parents and may feel and act out intense anger.
Parents should develop a schedule that allows for consistency with school and
extracurricular activities, and support their kids’ interests and friendships.
Signs of distress at this age include expressions of anger, drop in school
performance, sleep problems, and physical complaints.
Ten to Twelve Years
Pre-teens tend to see things in black and white terms, and so may align
themselves with one parent. Parents should encourage these kids to love both
parents and support their kids’ school and other activities. Signs of distress
in pre-teens may include loss of interest in friends, becoming a perfectionist,
depression, and isolation.
Early Adolescence (Thirteen to Fifteen Years)
Teens will often prefer to spend more time with friends than family, so allow
room in the parenting plan for this. These teens need firm but fair guidelines
and positive role models. They may also want to be included in creating the
parenting plan. Signs of distress in this age group may include excessive
anger or isolation, difficulty with school or peers, alcohol and drug use, and
sexual acting out.
Late Adolescence (Sixteen to Eighteen Years)
Teens in this age group are learning to be independent to prepare for the
separation from their parents, but they still need support and rules. These
teens may also want to be included in creating the parenting plan. Watch for
signs of distress, including reduction in school performance, difficulty with
peers, alcohol and drug use, and sexual acting out. If parents aren’t able to
talk, your teen can say, “I’m spending tonight at mom’s (dad’s) house,” and you
won’t know if they’re really there.