If you and your spouse decide to divorce, it’s important that you immediately begin to think about the well being of your child or children. Neglecting to do so will only make things worse on everyone involved.
There is no denying the fact that this will be a difficult time for your child. Regardless of age, an adjustment period is required.
When discussing divorce with your child, here are a few things you should do:
— Focus on the positives. In other words, let the child know that both their parents still care about him or her.
— Talk about how things will stay the same. While there are sure to be some changes, there will also be details that remain the same within the household.
— Tell the child that he or she did not contribute to the divorce in any way. Many children soon begin to believe that they were responsible for the divorce. Make it clear from the start that this is not true.
— Answer questions as they come up. You are sure to be faced with many divorce related questions from your child. Answer each and every one in a clear, accurate and timely manner.
If nothing else, you should always remember to put your child first. You may have a lot on your plate in regards to the divorce and your future, but you have to do what is best for your child. When you make this decision, you know that your child will make it through the divorce process without too much stress or any long-term impact.
Source: The Huffington Post, “How To Tell Your Children About Divorce In Ten Steps,” accessed June 03, 2016