Divorce is devastating for everyone involved, especially children. One of the
most difficult conversations you'll ever have is breaking the news
to your kids. Even if the announcement isn’t a complete surprised—whether
it’s arguing constantly or living apart for an extended period of
time—it is natural for children to wish their family can together.
While there is no ideal way to break the news, there are several things
you can do and say that can relieve some of the pain.
Apply these helpful tips when you talk to your children about divorce:
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Have both parents break the news together. Talking to your children together helps eliminate blame and makes it
appear to them that their parents are still united—even if the divorce
isn’t a joint decision. Children need to be confident that their
parents can still work together as a team to raise them.
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Keep the message simple and clear – Avoid discussing the messy details that could possibly lead children
to believe that they can resolve the issue or that they are the cause
of the divorce. You could say something along the lines of, “Mommy
and daddy have decided that we can’t live together anymore and do
not want to stay married. Even though we won’t be husband and wife,
we will always be your mom and dad.”
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Let your children know that it’s not their fault – The kids need to understand that they did not cause to the breakup
of the family unit. You must tell them that the decision to separate was
an adult decision, based on adult issues. Additionally, they need to know
that this is an issue that they are unable to repair.
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Tell them that they will always be loved – Although there will be changed in the family unit, one thing that
will not change is your love for them, and that you both will still be
their parents and actively involved in their lives.
Your children may express themselves in various ways when they hear the
news. Whether they are angry or sad, give your kids the time to process
the news and encourage them to express their thoughts and emotions. Answer
any questions they will have, which will most likely occur after the talk
and throughout your divorce.
If you are interested in filing for divorce in Daytona Beach, FL, speak
with our experienced legal team at
Law Offices of Robert Stepniak today.