Mediation has become a popular way of resolving conflicts and disputes. It’s a process that allows individuals to resolve their conflicts outside of courtrooms, usually with the guidance of a neutral third party known as a mediator. While mediation has been mostly considered for adults, it is equally effective for children, particularly those who are involved in divorce or domestic disputes. At Rhino Mediation, we understand the importance of ensuring children’s well-being during mediation and how it can positively impact their future. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of involving children in mediation and how our approach helps to protect their interests.
Children’s Views are Valued
Mediation allows children to participate in the process and express their concerns, wishes, and opinions. When children feel heard and valued, they are more willing to co-operate with the decisions made during mediation. Rhino Mediation ensures children have a voice in the mediation process. They can talk to the mediator in a private session and share their thoughts and concerns.
Mediation is Confidential
Mediation provides confidentiality and privacy. Children can express themselves freely without fear or stress about being exposed or judged by their parents. This confidentiality ensures that whatever they say during mediation remains protected. At Rhino Mediation, child participation is kept confidential, and their discussions with the mediator will only be shared with their parents if the child agrees or if there are safety concerns.
Empowered Decision-Making
Mediation promotes collaboration and cooperation between the parties involved. Children will feel like an integral part of the decision-making process, which gives them a sense of empowerment. Rhino Mediation ensures that the mediator helps to identify viable options and solutions that fit the unique needs of the child. Empowering children to make decisions together with their parents significantly benefits their mental and emotional well-being.
Higher Compliance Rates
Mediation agreements tend to have a higher compliance rate than court decisions because they were built by the parties themselves, and hence, everyone is satisfied with the decision. Children are more likely to comply with mediation agreements that they have had a hand in creating. At Rhino Mediation, we involve children in the process to help build a more constructive relationship with their parents.
An Opportunity to Learn Conflict-Resolution Skills
Mediation is an opportunity for children to learn conflict-resolution skills. When children see their parents working together to resolve disputes, they learn how to solve problems beyond the process. These skills can occur between siblings, friends, or even in future workplaces. Children will understand the cost of cooperation in a more significant way, which provides them with valuable life lessons.
Empowering Children through Mediation
At Rhino Mediation, we believe that involving children in mediation can have a significant, positive impact on their future. By empowering them to participate in the process and facilitating their safe and confidential contributions, we can assist the children in developing conflict resolution skills while also protecting their best interests. The benefits of mediation are numerous, and we encourage all parents to reflect on the benefits and think of involving their children in mediation during disputes.
