Divorce is much more complicated with kids involved. As a parent, you do not want to cause lingering issues with your child. However, sometimes divorce is the only option, and you need to make the best of things.
According to the CDC, Florida had a divorce rate of 3.5 per one thousand residents in 2019, ranking near the top of divorce rates in the US. Divorce is not the end of the world, though your children might feel that way at first. Continue reading to learn a few tips for talking to your children about divorce.
Handle child care as a team
Children want to know their parents still work together to take care of them. When you have kids, your relationship with your spouse does not end after the breakup of a marriage. Do not undermine your spouse’s authority in front of your children and maintain a cordial relationship for their benefit.
Explain the positives
There is a good chance your child noticed a change before you told them about the divorce. They might see the tension between you and your spouse or an increasing number of arguments. Emphasize that a divorce is the best path forward for the family. Though it is not easy, in the long term, everyone will feel happier.
Avoid too many details
You do not need to explain every negative detail of the lead-up to your divorce. Keep your talk simple and avoid painting your spouse in a negative light.
Children can deal with change if you guide them through it. Be patient with your kids, and do not expect them to accept their new reality immediately.
