Make a Clean Break

From page 30:

(Print a copy and keep in a private place for quick and easy reference.)

Here are my top rules to adhere to with kids:

• Establish your civil but scarce pattern—kids need consistency without drama.
• Be a positive example—kids need you to be strong.
• Vent your anger and shed your tears in private—kids need to feel safe.
• Don't push dad away by making visitation difficult—kids need to feel important.
• Speaking disparaging words about dad is off limits—kids need to feel good about dad.
• Never pump kids for information—kids need to stay out of the middle.
• Distinguish your hurt from their best interests—kids need to maintain solid ties with dad.
• Don't bring outsiders into your circle too soon—kids need to feel good about mom.
• Strive for a renewed sense of you—kids need to heal along with mom.