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Jon & Kate - What About the 8?

With all the media hype circulating around recent rumors of the Jon and Kate Plus 8 couple fighting excessively, allegations of the couple secretly dating other people and talks of a possible divorce, one has to wonder: How will divorce affect their kids?

Today, divorce is ranked No. 2 on the Holmes and Rahes Stress Scale and is especially frequent among parents of multiples. Children of newly divorced parents are innocent spectators, often left fearful of being abandoned and feeling that they are to blame for the divided household.

Listen to Your Children: Listening is a sacred act of reverence. The skilled listener withholds judgment and listens with an openness that expresses acceptance and presence. Make an effort to encourage children to openly communicate their feelings. This is a critical step in helping children cope with divorce. Let them know that you are available if ever they need to talk.

Avoid Guilty Gift Giving: Do not shower your children with gifts to fill the void. Offer them the love, attention and support they need, instead of using the latest toys or clothes as a substitute.

Schedule Home-Cooked Meals Together: Many of us rush through dinners of fast food, takeout, frozen food or instant meals. Make time for at least one home-cooked meal each day. Rediscover the joy of preparing and sharing food by choosing to be in the kitchen and being fully present while you are there. Have the kids help you make dinner, and when you eat, enjoy the nutritious and flavorful food and time spent talking with your family, rather than hurrying through as if it's a chore.

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