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, your friends, activities,
etc. Your mom and dad just need your love. They can handle the rest.
IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT AND DON'T BLAME YOURSELF.
----Special Concerns of Children Committee, March, 1998
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Sadly miss all my children...
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