Divorce is hard for most Tennessee families. It’s difficult to explain to your children that their parents won’t be together anymore, particularly if they’re young. As painful as it might be, the conversation can’t be avoided. There are ways to make it easier on yourself and your children, However.
Don’t tell your children too early
You may be tempted to talk to your children about divorce as early as possible. It’s important not to rush into the conversation, though. The conversation will be upsetting to your children no matter how well it goes. It’s even worse if you have to walk back the conversation later.
Instead, you’ll want to have the conversation only when you and your spouse are a hundred percent sure you’re getting divorced. This might mean waiting until the papers are actually filed in court.
Handling your child’s questions
Your child might sense that something is up and ask questions before you and your soon-to-be ex are ready to have that conversation. How you answer them depends on a variety of factors, including:
• Their age and emotions at the time
• Where you are in the divorce process
• How their lives are being impacted
If the other parent has moved out of the house, you should both be ready to answer that question as it comes up. Ideally, you and your ex will be ready to have these conversations by the time it impacts their day-to-day routines.
No matter how you feel about your spouse, you should communicate expectations clearly throughout the divorce process. It’s important that you guys are on the same page with how to approach these conversations and how to parent going forward.
Give reassurance
This is a big change, regardless of your child’s age. It’s important to meet them at their level and be prepared to reassure them.
You don’t have to lie or sugarcoat to give reassurance either. You can be transparent but reassure your children that they are still loved and will be safe during this transition.