Divorce is always a stressful experience on both the couple dissolving their marriage as well as their children. The break in family dynamic can be extremely detrimental to a child’s happiness depending on their age and level of maturity. Traditional Divorce Litigation and being dragged through a custody dispute can be extremely confusing and emotional for children as well.

Why Mediating The Matter Of Child Custody Can Be Beneficial To Children

Unless there are extreme circumstances (one parent is abusive, drinks or uses drugs, does not care for the welfare of their children, etc.), mediating the matter of child custody may be beneficial to children. Parents can decide on an agreement they believe is best-suited for their children, and there’s no need for their children to attend court. Nor would there be any reason for a court to appoint a law guardian to aid the judge in their decision, which can be stressful for children in and of itself. Many children feel uncomfortable answering questions regarding their parents, especially if they have an idea that their answers may help dictate who will take custody of them.

It’s likely not healthy for any child to witness their parents dispute each other’s right to be in their lives. The child might feel like they are in between a tug-of-war battle, and that likely won’t feel fair to the child – especially if they share the same love for both their parents. If parents decide to mediate the decision of child custody, their children won’t need to witness any fighting over them. Parents can come up with an agreement over child custody without involving the child. In most cases, parents know what’s best for their children. And in this respect, Divorce Mediation may be extremely beneficial.

Why Divorce Mediation In General Can Be Beneficial For Children

The process of Divorce Mediation is entirely different from Divorce Litigation, in which two opposing counsels represent each spouse’s demands and expectations. The very nature of Divorce Litigation, which pits two spouses against one another, can heighten resentments. If the couple is still residing together, these resentments might spill out of the courtroom and into their home. This can significantly alter the dynamic at home, where a child should feel safe and happy. Additionally, parents set an example for their children. If they showcase their resentments toward one another in front of their children, this may set the tone for how the child handles conflicts or resentments with others in their life.

Divorce Mediators aim to facilitate cooperative conversation between two spouses looking to dissolve their divorce. They may contend over matters of their divorce, but a mediator can help guide them in coming to a divorce settlement agreement that is mutually beneficial for both parties. The point of Divorce Mediation is to make a divorce as amicable and non-controversial as possible. Many times, those who mediate their divorce gain a newfound ability to handle conflicts. Children may learn vicariously through their parents how to positively handle conflict with others in their lives.