When children go through a divorce in the family it often means not only that they lose a parent but also a way of life, life as they have known it - their sense of what has always felt 'normal, is now gone.
It does not matter that both parents may be still actively involved in the child's life, a definite sense of stability has been broken as the family unit is now no longer intact.
Your support as a parent in these circumstances is very important, you will need to learn how to let your children grieve for what has been lost and how best to encourage them to adapt to their new situation.
Let's look at some of the most important things you can do in order to help your children get through the adjustment process and express their feelings without fear.
Much of this is about encouragement; positively try to engage your child in conversation about what has happened.
Your goal should be to let them share their feelings with you and your role is to listen carefully.
Often you can find that what they are going through is quite surprising as there may be much sadness, blame and frustration in their words.
It's often the case that children find it more difficult than adults to express themselves and their feelings.
Keep a watchful eye over them and try to pick up on any noticeable moods which might provide you with opportunities to talk with them.
Avoid putting words or prompting to guide their opinions to suit your own.
You must allow your child to be honest and non reluctant to share what they are really feeling even if it hurts you.
Provide them with a feeling that it's always going to be safe to talk to you.