This is a difficult discussion for parents and children. Just remember that you know your children and you need to use language they will understand.
Telling your children that you are divorcing is the first act you will take as co-parents. How you handle it will set the pattern for the future. Most importantly, it will show your children how the relationship with and between their parents will be going forward. Below are three key things to keep in mind.
1.) Both parents should agree on what to say to the children –do NOT give them adult information. Your children see you only as mom and dad not husband and wife.
2.) Keep the discussion relatively short with assurance that the children are loved, this is not their fault, and mom and dad are available to them when ever they need them.
3.) Use words and phrases such as: We will always be your mom and dad. We will always be YOUR family. Mom and Dad are separating/divorcing.
Your children will ask things like, “Where will I be living?” Will I have to change schools?” “What about my friends?” “Where will the dog live?” Keeping your answers simple and honest will make it easier for your children to understand and accept.
