Divorced Parenting: Camille & Kelsey Grammer's Mistakes

On a smaller scale but no less important, the same warning applies when something a child said to a parent is broadcasted to friends and family and has a divisive impact. There is no way for a child to anticipate a parent's reaction in advance. Because of a parent's reaction, the child may feel abandoned, guilty, anxious or upset and afraid that they have caused more pain for one or both parents. Obviously, this is not good and may lead to feelings of helplessness and depression.

Using this story as an example, it's likely that the "Camille" comment was taken out of context or misinterpreted by one of the children. Children don't usually call their mother by her first name in the first place. The Grammers are in the middle of a contentious and public divorce and perhaps have been advised by their attorneys not to have communication between them at this time. Because of their public personalities, a casual comment may be blown up by the media and make matters worse, as it has.

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I implore the Grammers — and all divorcing parents — to support their children by making it safe for their children to confide in them without worry that what they say will be broadcasted and cause more turmoil. If children believe that one or both parents cannot be trusted, they will keep their concerns to themselves and not seek help for or clarification of issues that trouble them. Parents must develop the maturity to communicate, however difficult it may be, to support the well being and mental health of their children. This is our adult responsibility as parents and more important than anything else.