One of your biggest concerns about your divorce is probably how your children will cope with the breakup. But divorce is a common experience for many children due to the high rate of divorce in the U.S.
According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, between 40 and 60% of all marriages in the U.S. end in divorce. These strategies for telling your children about your decision to divorce can help them cope better with the news.
Before the Conversation
Sit down with your spouse and figure out exactly what you will say to your children about your impending divorce. Pick a time to tell your children when the whole family can be together at a time that does not coincide with a major event, like one of your children’s birthdays.
During the Conversation
Do not blame your spouse for the end of your marriage during this conversation. Explain to your children why the breakup is happening and what life will look like for your them in the near future.
After the Conversation
Your children will likely need significant reassurance after you tell them about your divorce. Plan for them to experience a wide variety of emotions in the coming days and prepare yourself to help them work through these big feelings.
Your children may react differently to the news of your divorce then you expect. Whatever the reaction, reassure your children that everyone in your family will adjust to this change and things will feel normal again in the future.