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Parents and children 1
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Relationship breakdown and your children

Most children are upset when their parents separate. But for most this is a phase that will pass. You don't have to live together to be effective parents.

Bullet There is no right way to be separated parents. Every family is different.
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Bullet Most children want to have good relationships with both parents and other close family members such as grandparents.
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Bullet Your relationship may be at an end but your children still need you to play a full and active role in their upbringing. Your role as parents is for life.
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Bullet Your children need to know why you are separating and how things are likely to change for them.
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Bullet Parents may not see things in the same way at the same time. Listen to your partner's point of view and explain your own.
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Bullet Children will also see the situation differently, depending upon their age, position in the family and their relationship with each parent.
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Bullet Remember each child's needs are different. Arrangements for one child may not suit their brother or sister.

You and your children need to work together to sort out arrangements for their future. Encouraging them to express their feelings and be involved in the plans will help them adapt to their new lives.

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