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 One of the hardest hit areas during a divorce or break-up is the kids. Children are often apt to blame themselves when a breakup occurs. The turmoil of the childhood years seem to multiply when a parent leaves the home. Care must always be taken to, regardless of age, discuss what is going on with your kids. Do I really have to tell them all? Great details are not necessary, but be straight forward with them and let them know what is happening. When events are shrouded in secrecy, kids are apt to fill in the blanks with their own over active imaginations. A child armed with the truth is able to better handle things and voice questions about what may be bothering them. Don't make them pick! Children should not feel as though they are being made to pick between parents. Kids need to know that both parents are still available for them, and the non-custodial parent will not cease to be a parent. Do not share your anger concerning your ex-spouse with the kids. That is a detail that they do not need to know. My ex annoys me more times than I can count, but I still stress to my children how important it is for them to spend time with him. They've got a great dad, no matter how poorly we may be getting along. Kids, YOU have to talk too! Kids, you too must work to keep the communication open. If you have a problem or concern, share it with your parents. Most parents will be willing to answer your questions and ease your fears. Only together will we get through this! Home alone? One tough decision that single parents often have to make before traditional two parent families is when a child is old enough to be home alone for those few hours between when they get out of school and when you get out of work. The Canada Safety Council has a great page on children being home alone, good advice no matter what country you live in!

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