Children's Bill of Rights
Some years ago, the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers assembled a committee which focused on the Special Concerns of Children. That committee published a "Children's Bill of Rights" which reads as follow:
Every child should know he or she has rights, particularly when their mom and dad are splitting up. Below are some thing parents shouldn't forget -- and kids shouldn't let them -- when the family is in the midst of a break up:
- You have a right to love both of your parents. And you have a 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 divorce.
- You do not have to choose one parent over the other. If you have an opinion about what 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 are entitled to all the feelings you are having. Don't be embarrassed by what you're feeling. It's 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 might get so caught up in their own problems that they forget that you are just a kid. Remind them that you can't handle their adult worries.
- Grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and siblings are still part of your life. Even if you are living with one parent, you can still see relatives on your other parent's side. You will always be a part of their lives, even if your parent's 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, after-school activities, etc. Your mom and dad just need your love. They can handle the rest.
