Divorce is never an easy thing, but it can be especially complicated when there are children involved. Here are just a few tips for telling your kids that it’s over between you and your spouse.
1. Don’t Sugarcoat It
Vague metaphors will only confuse your children about what’s happening. They might not realize the seriousness of the situation, or they might jump to the wrong conclusions without you even realizing it. While you can break the news gently, you still need to be clear and concise about the fact that you and your spouse won’t be together anymore.
2. Explain How Things Are Going to Change
This is what your child will really want to know. If mom and dad are splitting up, where will they live? Will they still get to see the other parent? When are people moving out or moving away? What does this mean for their future? Even if you don’t have all of the answers, you owe it to your child to offer as many as you can.
3. Don’t Mention or Assign Fault
Don’t put any blame on yourself or your partner for the way that things ended. Even if your personal feelings on the subject are a bit more complicated, they should be kept to yourself in front of the kids. You should also be careful about saying things like, “It’s not your fault.” You might accidentally plant the idea that it is their fault.
4. Support Their Feelings
Your child might experience a whirlwind of emotions when they understand that you’re divorcing. Don’t try to suppress them. Let your child feel what they feel, and offer them unconditional love and support as they work through their own emotions during this troubling time.
These are just a few ways that you might break the news of your divorce to your children. If you need additional assistance, consider contacting a family lawyer in your area divorce lawyers in Gurnee, IL. They can help you keep things as amicable as possible as you and your spouse begin separate chapters in your lives.