Physical Safety, my own Personal Space

I have a right to my own personal space in each of my homes. This doesn’t mean I can’t share a room with my brother or sister, but it does mean that I need space and time of my own. I also need some special personal items in my own space . . . and this just might include a picture of my other parent . . . don’t freak out about it.

I have a right to physical safety and adequate supervision. I know you may be very upset about your divorce, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect my needs for safety and supervision. I don’t want to be home alone all the time while you’re out dating someone new.

I have a right to spend time with both parents, without interference. My right to spend time with each of you shouldn’t be dependent upon how much money one of you has paid the other. That makes me feel cheap, like something you might buy in a store.

I have a right to ?nancial and emotional support from both my parents, regardless of how much time I spend with either of you. This doesn’t mean I expect twice as much as other kids get, it just means that you should stop worrying about what I got from my other parent and focus on what you’re providing me.

I have a right to ?rm limits and boundaries and reasonable expectations. Just because I’m a child of divorce doesn’t mean I can’t handle chores, homework, or other normal childhood responsibilities. On the other hand, keep in mind that even though I may have a little sister or brother , I’m not the designated babysitter.

I have a right to your patience. I didn’t choose to go through a divorce; I didn’t choose to have my biological parents live in two different homes, move away, date different people, and in general, turn my world upside down. Therefore, more than most children, my life has been beyond my control. This means I will need your help and support to work through my control issues.