Will divorce affect my child’s academic performance?

We all want the best for our children, and this means that we do everything we can to ensure their success both academically and socially. However, we can’t always control the challenges that we face in life. If you are approaching divorce as a parent, it is likely that you are concerned about the way that this could affect your child.

Studies have shown that divorce can negatively impact a child’s performance at school. One study conducted on 447 children from both intact families and divorced families concluded that children’s achievement test scores tend to do less well in the immediate aftermath of their parents’ divorce. This is undoubtedly concerning for parents approaching divorce. However, there are things that can be done to minimize the impact that divorce has on your child.

Address the topic directly to avoid emotional distraction

One of the reasons why children suffer academically during their parents’ divorce is because they are emotionally distracted by processing the changes that are happening. It is important to try to minimize the stress that your child undergoes by talking to them about the matter. By reassuring them that they are loved by both parents and by addressing any concerns that they have, they will feel safe and acknowledged.

Try to enforce consistency

Changes in routines can affect a child’s performance. Therefore, by trying to keep traditions and daily routines as unaffected as possible, you will minimize the changes that your child will have to adapt to.

It is important to plan ahead before undergoing a divorce in order to ensure the financial and emotional well-being of your family.