Home > Learning Center > Children and divorce
Children and Divorce
Statistics show that one in two marriages will end in divorce. Very often, divorce is the best solution for a failing marriage, but that does not mean that it is not difficult for all involved. While a divorce is going to impact children involved no matter what, here are some tips to help you lessen that impact:
• Tell them – many parents are afraid to upset their children by informing them of their decision to divorce or separate. However, oftentimes, children realize that something is wrong, and if they are not told directly, they may come to the wrong conclusions. For many reasons, it is important to let your children know of the decision, no matter how young they are. (However, you should only tell them once you are certain you will divorce).
• Set aside time – do not tell your children right before they are off to school! Tell them when they will have time to grasp the information and ‘mourn’ before they must deal with the realities of life. Comfort them.
• Together – once you have decided to divorce, tell your children together.
• Blame – make sure that the children know that the divorce is not their fault. Also, be sure to not assign blame to one parent or the other.
• Simplicity – tell your children in the most simple and straight-forward way possible. Make sure they understand what is going on, and make sure that they understand that you are not going to get back together.
• Upsetting – don’t pretend that the divorce will be easy. Let your children know that it is going to be difficult for everyone.
• Tell them you love them – make sure they know how much you love them and how you will both always be their parents, even if you have split.
• Expectations – give your children an idea of what they can expect in the future (there is no need to go into great detail, though).
• Ask if they have any questions.
• Never talk poorly about your ex-spouse – you should not discuss the faults of your ex. For your children’s sake, do not be bitter.
• Watch for signs of depression, etc. – if necessary, get professional help for your children (and/or for yourself).
Discipline, Divorce, Work and other situations
Family Support America | Learning Center | Site Map | Links | Contact | Home
©