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Tips on talking about divorce with your kids

On Behalf of | Apr 26, 2017 | Divorce

For parents in Kentucky, perhaps the most troubling aspect of divorce is discussing the matter with their children. Kids are bound to experience a range of emotions when hearing the news, some of which will be very difficult to contend with. In this case, knowing how to broach the subject with children can render this challenging topic a bit easier for the whole family.

According to TheSpruce.com, using direct and concise language with kids is usually the best course of action. However, parents should refrain sharing the intimate details of a break up, which can often be inappropriate for kids. Instead, gently remind them that these are adult matters and reiterate that they are stilled loved despite the change in marital status.

It’s also important to refrain from speaking negatively about the other parent to kids. Even when matters are contentious, children should be protected from any animosity present between divorcing spouses. Kids often take negative language about their parents to heart, and in turn anything bad said about mom or dad may be taken as a reflection of themselves. Additionally, parents must make every attempt to answers kids’ questions regarding a divorce (provided they do not fall into the inappropriate category described above).

KidsHealth.org also offers tips on having the divorce discussion. Breaking the news as a cohesive family unit with both parents present is usually the best course of action. This will show kids that they still have a family, even though its dynamic is changing. It’s also vital to ensure kids know they are still loved equally by both parents, and that ensuing changes won’t alter this fact in the slightest.