Posted On December 8, 2020 Divorce
Children need to be told that their parents are getting a divorce. However, this news can come as quite a shock, no matter how much a child knows about their parents’ relationship. Preparing for the conversation and thinking through all of the questions they might have can help you protect and prepare your child during the transition. Here are some tips on how to talk to your children about divorce.
If you and your spouse can be amicable enough, tell your children the news together. That way, it won’t be viewed as one parent’s decision or fault. The decision may have not been unanimous, but maintaining a united front can help provide the feeling of safety and security.
Blaming the other parent or having a doom and gloom attitude while talking to your child about divorce can cause them to take on your anxieties. Keep in mind that any negative feelings you share about your spouse is about your child’s other parent. Name calling and anger can have a destructive effect on children, and may also make your child feel like they must choose a side. It is best to present the news as simply and matter-of-factly as possible, while also being sympathetic to their feelings. Throughout the transition try to keep adult issues, such as court dates and conversation with lawyers, separate from interactions with your child.
When your children ask why you are getting a divorce, give them a simple, honest answer while also reminding them it is not their fault. Try to come up with your answer ahead of time that both parents can agree on. Just make sure your kids know that this decision had nothing to do with them, since children often feel tremendous responsibility for their parents choosing to divorce.
Validating your child’s feelings is vitally important in making them feel heard and understood. By the time you are in a position to end your relationship, you may have already gone through the stages of anger, hurt and grief – you might even be in the final stage of acceptance. Remember that your children may need to work through these stages at their own pace. Your kids may be angry or sad, and may stomp their feet, cry, or say nothing at all. Be supportive of whichever way they choose to express their emotions. Let them know you are there for them and give them the time and space they need to process the news. However, be aware of any warning signs of ongoing trouble with the transition and new living situation, such as:
If your child is exhibiting any of the above mentioned warning signs, notifying a school counselor or seeking professional help for your child can be constructive options. Any problem your child is experiencing is not a sign that you have failed as a parent. Instead of assigning blame for the situation, try to focus on your child’s current needs and finding an effective method for helping them.
To learn more and get the help you deserve, call our divorce lawyers or reach out to Twyford Law Office online by visiting our contact us page.
We serve in King County and Spokane County in Washington and its surrounding areas. You can also visit our offices. We are conveniently located in Seattle, Spokane & Bellevue:
Twyford Law Office – Seattle Office
814 Second Avenue, Suite 515,
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 590-7085
Twyford Law Office – Spokane Office
430 W Indiana Ave,
Spokane, WA 99205.
(509) 327 0777
Twyford Law Office – Bellevue Office
1408 140th Pl NE Suite 400,
Bellevue, WA 98007
(425) 517-3350
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Our Law Offices
Our Seattle Office
814 Second Avenue 515,
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 590-7085
Our Spokane Office
430 W Indiana Ave,
Spokane, WA 99205
(509) 327 0777
Our Bellevue Office
1408 140th Place NE, Suite 400,
Bellevue, WA 98007
(425) 517 3350.