Parents who make the decision to divorce will have to tell their children. This is sometimes one of the most difficult steps they have to take, but it’s necessary.
This discussion gives you a chance to clarify what life will be like for the children now that they’ll be splitting their time between parents. It’s also a chance for them to ask you questions.
Choose the right time
Choosing the right time to tell the children is important. This is a major life change, so you shouldn’t tell them if they have something else going on. For example, giving them this news during finals week at school or just before you leave for Christmas with family members isn’t a good idea.
Provide age-appropriate information
Some children blame themselves for the divorce. You must ensure that you reassure them that this is a decision that adults made. Don’t let the children think that the divorce is their fault or that they were responsible, even partially, for the split.
Remain honest
It’s a natural instinct to want to protect your children, but you can’t provide them with false reassurances. Instead, you have to tell them the truth about what life will be like. Being honest from the start will give them a chance to see that they can trust their parents while their life significantly changes.
The parenting plan is what both parents must follow as they raise their children after the split. This should include all the terms of the agreement, including the parenting time schedule. Working with someone who can assist with determining the terms to include in the plan may make this process easier, which can make it possible to keep things as consistent and stable as possible for them.