Behavioural:

• Changes in eating, toilet training, and sleeping patterns.

Psychological:

• Becomes fearful and quiet.
• Does not calm down easily.

Social:

• Withdraws from people more than usual.

• Stay calm. Your child takes cues from you. When you are calm, they are more likely to feel calm too.
• Show them love and reassurance. Let your child know they are loved and that things will be okay.
• Keep a regular routine. Try to keep mealtimes and bedtimes consistent. A familiar routine helps your child feel safe and settled during an unsettling time.
• Support their relationship with both parents. Share updates about your child's daily routine so that both of you can care for them in a consistent way.

During this time, there are some things that can unintentionally hurt your child, even when you mean well. Here is what to keep in mind:

• Avoid overcompensating with gifts:
  • It can be tempting to buy your child extra gifts to make them feel better, or to match what your co-parent is giving. However, this can send confusing messages to your child and may have effects that you do not intend.
• Avoid putting your child in the middle:
  • Do not use your child to pass messages to your co-parent. This involves your child unnecessarily in adult matters and may add to their stress. Your child may also feel used.
  • Do not use your child as a "spy" to get information about your co-parent. Your child may feel torn having to decide whether to share about your co-parent’s home or life. It may affect their relationship with you or your co-parent.
• Avoid speaking badly about your co-parent:
  • Children see themselves as part of both parents, so criticising your co-parent may feel like a personal attack on them. 
  • Remind family members not to speak badly of your co-parent too.

If you are worried about your child's growth or development, seek advice from a healthcare professional.