As a North Carolina parent, your children are your first priority. Most parents agree that a healthy home is best for a child to be a part of. If your marriage is no longer happy, then this will impact the child negatively. While some parents believe that staying together for the children is best, this is not always the case. Divorce is difficult for all parties involved and as a parent, you have to think about your child throughout the process. Parents suggest that the age of the child will determine how he or she understands the divorce and responds to it.
If your child is under 18 months, be aware that he or she can feel the tension and conflict between parents. A baby may become more clingy and fussy. He or she may experience more emotional outbursts throughout the day. Watch out for developmental delays. To offset the reaction, consistency and familiarity help immensely.
From 18 months to three years, your child may blame him or herself for the breakup. Toddlers are notoriously self-centered and the parents are at the center of their world. They may crave attention more and may regress to habits they used to have. Three to six-year-olds want to control outcomes. They may be angry and uncertain and be more prone to nightmares than earlier ages. At this age, you should handle your child positively because he or she will imitate your moods and feelings. As with all children, consistency and routine can help with the adjustment.
None of the above is meant to be legal advice. Instead, it is for informational purposes only.