Q & A – I have decided I want my child to see their other parent?

When a young child wants to reconnect with a parent they have been alienated from, it can be a delicate situation that requires careful handling. Here are some steps that can help:

1. Listen to the child: It’s important to listen to the child’s feelings and desires to reconnect with the parent they have been alienated from. Encourage the child to express their emotions and provide a safe and supportive environment for them to do so.
2. Seek professional help: It may be helpful to seek the assistance of a therapist who specializes in parental alienation. A therapist can help the child process their emotions and develop coping strategies, as well as facilitate communication between the child and the estranged parent.
3. Respect the child’s pace: It’s important to respect the child’s pace and not force them to reconnect with the estranged parent before they are ready. Pushing a child to reconnect before they feel comfortable could cause more harm than good.
4. Facilitate communication: When the child is ready, facilitate communication between the child and the estranged parent. This could include supervised visits or phone calls, depending on what the child is comfortable with.
5. Stay neutral: It’s important to remain neutral and not take sides in the situation. Avoid speaking negatively about either parent in front of the child, as this could further fuel the alienation.

Remember, the process of reconnecting with an estranged parent can be a challenging and emotional journey for a young child. It’s important to provide support and seek professional help to ensure that the child’s well-being is the top priority throughout the process.