Navigating Transitions and Emotions: Insights from a Divorced Family - Interview with Bella Duncan and her father, Craig Duncan

Dad to Dads Podcast

In this episode Robert interviews Bella Duncan (from www.akidwithtwohomes.com ) and her father Craig Duncan about their experiences as a divorced family. They discuss the emotions and challenges that arise during the transition between houses, particularly during pick-up and drop-off. Bella shares her perspective as a child of divorce, highlighting the mix of excitement and anxiety she feels during these transitions. Craig emphasizes the importance of being in a good state of mind and focusing on the well-being of the children during these moments. They also discuss how to handle holidays and vacations, emphasizing the need for flexibility and focusing on the positive aspects of each situation. In this part of the conversation, Bella and her dad discuss the days when they miss each other extra and how they cope with it. Bella shares her experience of waking up in the middle of the night and worrying about her dad, and how her mom would comfort her. She emphasizes the importance of parents acknowledging and validating their child's feelings of missing the other parent, rather than dismissing or minimizing them. Craig adds that it's important for parents to accept that their children love and adore both parents equally, and to create a safe space for them to express their emotions. They also discuss the importance of maintaining a lifelong relationship with their children and putting their needs first.

• Transitions between houses can be emotionally challenging for children of divorce, as they experience a mix of excitement and anxiety.
• Parents should strive to be in a good state of mind during pick-up and drop-off, focusing on the well-being of the children and creating a positive atmosphere.
• Flexibility is key when it comes to holidays and vacations, allowing for celebrations to take place on different days and making the most of the time spent with each parent.
• Children of divorce may have moments of longing for a 'normal' family, but it's important for parents to remind them that their unique family dynamic can still be fulfilling and something to be proud of.
• Open communication and empathy are crucial in helping children navigate the challenges of divorce and ensuring they feel supported and loved by both parents. Children may have days when they miss their other parent extra, and it's important for parents to acknowledge and validate their feelings.
• Parents should create a safe space for their children to express their emotions and offer support and comfort.
• It's crucial for parents to accept that their children love and adore both parents equally, and to foster a positive co-parenting relationship.
• Maintaining a lifelong relationship with children requires effort and understanding, and it's important to prioritize their needs.
• Parents should focus on the well-being and happiness of their children, even if it means putting aside personal conflicts or differences.