Divorce is particularly difficult for couples with children. Parents are often puzzled as to how they talk to children about the change.
If you’re a parent who’s going through a divorce, here’s what you may consider saying as you talk to your children:
Keep the discussion simple
When parents talk about divorce, they don’t need to complicate the situation by talking about every detail. It likely would not do children any good if parents revealed that the divorce was caused by infidelity, addiction or financial issues. Instead, parents may need to consider finding a no-blame explanation for the divorce but also focus on what will happen after the divorce. For example, parents could say that they’ve come to a point in life where the two wish to go their separate ways.
Let your children ask questions
Children often learn abot complex topics by asking questions. Parents will likely have to answer about what will change after the divorce. For example, it may help to explain to children that they will not be living under the same roof, that they will have two rooms or that they may need to change schools. Every question can’t be answered, however, and parents can try to do their best in an honest manner.
Remind your children it isn’t their fault
One of the immediate conclusions many children go to is that the divorce was caused by them. This happens a lot with children in grade school. Children at this age are still learning cause and effect, however, they don’t understand the complexity of adult decisions. It can help if parents remind their children that a divorce is not their fault. This can also help with children’s development.
If you are a parent going through a divorce and you’re worried about your children, then you may need to reach out for help. Parents who understand their legal options may make wiser decisions when discussing child custody.