Divorce is never an easy situation for any member of a Maryland family. Regardless of your children’s ages, it’s difficult to tell them the news. Because hearing about divorce is so upsetting for kids, it’s important to be direct and honest with the news.
Be honest
Honesty is the best policy, and this holds when parents choose to get a divorce. Although it might be hard to break the news, it’s best to be truthful. At the same time, you don’t have to give out specific details. Keep your children’s ages in mind when telling them as well.
Reassure them
Children of all ages can take the news of their parents splitting up hard. Some might fear that they’ve done something to cause the divorce while others can become angry and lash out. Whatever the case, reassure your kids by telling them it’s not their fault and that you and your spouse will always love them and be there for them.
Avoid blame and fighting
Even if your split is contentious, avoid blaming your spouse when talking to your kids. It unfairly places them in the middle and makes for an ugly situation. Your children have a right to maintain their personal view of your spouse as a parent and shouldn’t be used as pawns in your bitter disputes. Avoid fighting in front of them; if you have to argue, do it out of your kids’ presence.
Listen to their fears
Your kids will naturally have some fears about the upcoming divorce. Be there for them and listen to what they have to say. Encourage them to pour out their emotions no matter how negatively they might be feeling.
Being there for your kids before, during and after divorce can help them cope better with the situation.