Teachers have a lot of influence on their students and might be able to help them more than they know. Children in Illinois whose parents are going through a divorce may have a difficult time with their new family dynamic. Teachers spend a lot of time with these children and may be able to assist them by providing encouragement or by being open to listen to what’s going on in their lives.
It’s already tough being a kid and the added emotional stress on them if their parents divorce may spill over into many areas of a child’s life — including school. Teachers see their students for hours each day and they are usually aware of what’s happening in their students’ lives. One study showed that teachers could actually help these students to feel safe and secure during a time of familial uncertainty. Simply asking a child if he or she is all right can open up important conversations.
Teachers can also communicate to parents about how their children are doing socially, academically and emotionally. The may be able to provide links to experts such as family therapists or social workers if the children need a professional to talk to. Most children thrive with routine and don’t take well to drastic changes, so school and teachers can provide that for children who may be struggling.
There are tools available under Illinois family law for parents who have made the decision to divorce. Parents want what’s best for their children and most welcome the help of others like teachers, therapists and lawyers. These experts may be able to help parents to help their children by providing information and tools to make the divorce process easier on kids.