Some adults believe that living in two homes is challenging for children, but many kids who live with both parents in separate households would disagree. Here, we’ve gathered the benefits of having parents who live in different places. Do you have other ideas that should be on the list? Feel free to email us at hello@varannanvecka.app, and we’ll add your suggestions! ❤️
When parents no longer live together, one parent often needs to “step up” and take on responsibilities that the other parent may have handled while they were living together. As a result, children who split their time between two homes often have better relationships with their fathers than those whose parents live together. Fathers spend more time with their kids and take on a greater share of parenting duties. (And yes, of course, this can apply to mothers stepping up as well!)
It can be tough for parents to manage everything at home by themselves. That's why it's common for them to seek help from grandparents, close friends, or neighbors. For children, this often means having more adults around—adults who have more energy and are genuinely interested in how the child is doing.
When children live in two homes, it’s often easier to create special moments with each parent. Maybe Fridays are always fish taco night when you get to decide without needing two adults to agree on everything? Maybe there’s more room for fun and a relaxed atmosphere at home?
This can vary depending on the family, but some children continue to celebrate their birthdays with both parents together, while others get two celebrations—one with mom and one with dad. Some parents work out different arrangements, but it’s common for children living in two homes to get a bit more celebration since both parents want to make their child feel special. We think that’s a great bonus! The same often applies to Christmas celebrations and gifts. Celebrating “Little Christmas” with the parent you’re not with on Christmas Day is pretty awesome!
This doesn’t apply to all children, but it does for many. If there has been tension or conflict between parents at home, the arguments often stop once the parents live separately. It’s important that the fighting stops because children don’t do well in an environment with constant conflict. It’s also easier for parents to be kind and supportive when everything is calm. This is beneficial for both children and parents.
Malin Bergström Child Psychologist, Associate Professor & Author
29 August 2024
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