If you plan on getting a divorce, you may worry about how your life will change. And if you have children, you may have concerns about how they will cope with this transition.
Although the divorce rate is the lowest it has been in 50 years, according to the Institute for Family Studies, many children effectively cope and adapt to the news of their parents getting a divorce. How well your children take this news may depend on how you handle this initial conversation.
1. Tell your kids together
Present a united front by telling your children about your divorce with your spouse. During this conversation, do not put blame on your spouse for the end of your marriage in front of your children.
2. Prepare in advance
Sit down with your spouse and determine what you will tell your children about your plans to divorce beforehand. You should also figure out a time to have this conversation that does not conflict with any major events. For example, you may not want to disclose your plans to divorce the night before one of your children’s birthdays.
3. Answer questions honestly
Your children may have many questions about your plans to get divorced. Answer their questions as honestly as you can while reassuring them that the divorce was not their fault.
Your children may not react as you expect to the news of your divorce. Plan for them to experience a wide range of emotions after this conversation and provide extra support and attention in the coming days.
