Understandably, divorce can make for sticky situations, especially involving your kids. Don’t get to concerned just yet, because these are the best tips for how to tell your kids you are getting a divorce. Keep a positive attitude for a smoother transition into a single-parent household.
Keep the Conversation Civil
It’s always a good reminder to keep things civil when conversing about another parent who isn’t there. Your children won’t understand if you point fingers and blame the other person for issues. Never paint an image to your children that the parent leaving the household is less than you.
Plan Out What You’ll Say
Before diving headfirst into the situation, take your time and gather your thoughts. You don’t need to tell them the instant it happens; chances are, you need time to think it over, too. Come up with possible questions your kids could ask you and how you can respond to them. Prepare for the conversation to avoid mistakes and give them a clear, unbiased understanding of the situation.
Provide Reassurance
When you sit down with your kids for this conversation, keep their feelings above your own. Reassure your child that although things will be changing, your love for them will not. Lead the discussion on a positive note and reassure your children everything will be OK.
Explain the Upcoming Changes
Children don’t realize how big of a change divorce is. It’s best to explain the why and what to make sure they understand the situation. Place their minds at ease with what will stay the same between you two, what will need to change, and how it will look.
Use Children’s Books for Younger Kids
Explaining divorce to a younger child has its separate challenges. Luckily, reading a book on the topic helps better their understanding. Plus, reading is a great way to stay connected with your children after a divorce. Literature paints a picture for the kids that we can’t do ourselves.
Keep up your positivity and patience. Your child might not understand right away, but eventually, they’ll realize your love remains the same for them regardless. Answer all their questions and use reassurance whenever there are lingering notions of doubt. These are the best ways to tell your kids you are getting a divorce.
