 CHILDREN'S BILL OF RIGHTS "WHEN PARENTS ARE NOT TOGETHER " Every kid has rights, particularly when mom and dad are
splitting up. Below are some things parents shouldn't forget --
and kids shouldn't let them -- when the family is in the midst of
a break-up.
You have the right to love both your parents.
You also have the right to be loved by both of them. That means
you shouldn't feel guilty about wanting to see your dad or your
mom at any time. It's important for you to have both parents in
your life, particularly during difficult times such as a break-up
of your parents.
You do not have to choose one parent over the other.
If you have an opinion about which parent you want to live with,
let it be known. But nobody can force you to make that choice.
If your parents can't work it out, a judge may make the
decision for them.
You're entitled to all the feelings you're having.
Don't be embarrassed by what you're feeling. It is scary when your
parents break up, and you're allowed to be scared. Or angry.
Or sad. Or whatever.
You have the right to be in a safe environment.
This means that nobody is allowed to put you in danger, either
physically or emotionally. If one of your parents is hurting you,
tell someone -- either your other parent or a trusted adult like
a teacher.
You don't belong in the middle of your parents' break-up.
Sometimes your parents may get so caught up in
their own problems that they forget that you're just a kid, and
that you can't handle their adult worries. If they start putting you
in the middle of their dispute, remind them that it's their fight,
not yours.
Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins are still part of your life.
Even if you're living with one parent, you can still
see relatives on your other parent's side. You'll always be a
part of their lives, even if your parents aren't together
anymore.
You have the right to be a child.
Kids shouldn't worry about adult problems.
Concentrate on your school work, yourfriends, activities, etc.
Your mom and dad just need your love. They can handle the rest. |