Women and Separation (Booklet) - Relationships Australia

Women and Separation Managing New HorizonsBeing there for your childrenBeing there for your children is very important. Keep importantroutines, and develop new ones together. The challenge is to find timeto do it all without falling in a heap. It may be difficult at first becauseof all that is happening in your life.Inform the school of the changes and stay involved with the children'sactivities and their friends.• Don’t expect your children to look after you emotionally (you are theparent).• Don’t talk negatively about your former partner to the children.• Don’t ask your children to play 'messenger' between parents.• Don’t quiz your children about the other parent and what he/she isdoing.• Be alert to any signs of distress including physical illnesses orchanges in behaviour.• Encourage your children to attend counselling if they need to talkto someone outside the family.Even adult children may experience intense emotions at this time.Kids Helpline provides free confidential telephone and onlinecounselling for children and young people aged between five and 25.Call 1800 55 1800 or visit www.kidshelp.com.auThe Child Support Agency has a booklet and website for teenagerswhose parents are separating or have separated.More at www.youth.csa.gov.auConsider getting help withyour parentingThere are many good courses and books thatcan assist you with your changed parentingrole (see page 43).You can also seek advice from RelationshipsAustralia, Family Relationship Centres orthe Family Relationship Advice line (seepages 37-42).Grandparents may also be available toprovide support and assistance withparenting.22