It is hard to set up a good relationship with children -- including role modeling -- when a parent is kept from their child during and after divorce proceedings.

Connecticut fathers may find themselves in a similar situation. When a father finally gets his rightful visitation -- or even custody, depending on the ruling of the court -- healing the emotions of a child may be difficult.

Custody arrangements can be stressful even when both parents are cordial. Whether you are embroiled in a nasty custody or visitation battle or you and your ex-spouse have an amicable relationship, your children may still experience pain over the break up. Once a father's rights have been established and he gains custody or visitation, he needs to develop a plan to repair the relationship with his child, or, in the case of a cordial break up, develop a plan to connect with his children. In both situations, nurturing the children is important.

Get more involved in your children's lives. Involvement brings on conversation and shows that you love your children. If your children are involved in sports and other extra-curricular activities, attend their games and events. Determine what your children like, no matter how old they are. Younger children may like to color, play at a playground in the park or have friends over. Older children may like to play video games, go hiking, rafting or may just like to go out to eat.

Involvement leads to conversation. At first, it may only be conversation about an event, but eventually a child may open up and want to discuss his or her feelings. Help your children identify their problems and solve conflicts. Use activities that your children enjoy and conversation to close the gap in your relationship, if the relationship was damaged. After all, a child can benefit greatly from having a healthy relationship with both of their parents.

Source: Huffington Post, "Don't Divorce Your Kids," Nancy Fagan, Feb. 2, 2012