The period right after a divorce or separation can be one of instability and uncertainty for children. They may experience emotional and psychological turmoil, resulting in harm to their overall mental well-being.
Birdnesting is a possible way to mitigate upheaval and its impact on their lives. Parents maintain a single-family home for their children and take turns living there with them. This may benefit the children in several ways.
Stability
Instead of shuffling between two different homes, children remain in a familiar environment. This offers a measure of stability and consistency in a time when almost everything else in their lives no longer remains the same. It also allows them to feel as if they still have a home, whereas constantly moving between two households may result in a feeling of endless transience.
Nesting also saves them the energy and time required to pack up and transport supplies regularly and minimizes disruptions to their daily lives. Children can continue attending the same school, participating in their usual activities and staying connected with friends and neighbors.
Relationship maintenance
Birdnesting allows children to maintain close relationships with both parents. They do not have to choose one parent’s home over the other and have regular access to both parents. This can contribute to healthier parent-child bonds and a sense of security.
Effective communication promotion
For birdnesting to work effectively, parents must communicate and cooperate closely. This necessity can encourage parents to improve their communication skills and work together for the benefit of their children.
Emotional adjustment
The emotional adjustment process for children after a divorce or separation can be challenging. Birdnesting eases this transition by providing a consistent and supportive environment. Children can focus on healing and adapting to their new family structure.
According to Bowling State University’s National Center for Family and Marriage Research, 40% of recently divorced men and women had at least one minor child living with them, excluding non-reported cases. Birdnesting has the potential to considerably ease the aftermath of divorce for children, but it is not right for everyone. There are many considerations, such as age.
A nesting arrangement may not suit households with older children, more financial instability or more contentious relationships well. Individuals need to consider these as well as sustainability and legal factors before committing.