Man describes becoming a better parent after divorce

A pretty dark shadow has usually been cast on divorce in Las Vegas and across the country, especially when the split includes children. The thought of the separation ruining a child’s life often comes to mind when parents are making the decision to break up. Although the split can be hard on kids, one father points out that it can also be the best thing for the child-parent relationship.

The man, who divorced from his wife when his children were 6 months old and 2 years old, says the new child custody arrangement made him a much better father. After the divorce, the man moved into an apartment and was jobless for two years. That’s when he says he relearned how to be a parent.

During the marriage, the father admits that he worked nonstop. And when he wasn’t working, he was out getting in trouble and drinking. Once he was faced with the task of caring for his children by himself, he realized what was really important. The man said the most important moment was the first time his children spent a night at his home. The man said that as he rocked his young son to sleep, he was reminded that his children were more important than anything.

Child custody arrangements focus on the best interests of the children and in some situations, when parents live apart, they become better parents. This ultimately leads to a better relationship between the parent and his or her children and a positive outcome for all those involved. Situations like this help to bring divorce out of its negative shadow.

Source: The New York Times, “When Divorce Makes a Better Dad,” Thomas Matlack, Jan. 30, 2013