44 Words: 7 Tips for Preparing your Children for Divorce

2255 Words: 407
It can be challenging to prepare your children for divorce. Obviously things will change, sometimes as significantly as a parent or even them moving far away. You will want to be very gentle when helping your children through this difficult time. The following are tips for preparing your children for divorce.
Make sure they understand that nothing is their fault
You want to make sure that your children understand that they are not to blame for the divorce. Many children, especially younger ones with less of a grasp on the complexities of relationships, might believe that they are somehow at fault for the breakup. They may take it upon themselves and think that if only they had done something, this wouldn’t be happening. You want to disabuse them of all of these false notions.
Make sure that they understand that both parents love them
It is important for them to understand that the love each of their parents has for them hasn’t lessened. They are still loved the same by their parents. They may feel that they are the ones getting divorced – obviously this is not the case.
Focus on what will not change
The children will have so many things that will change, that you might want to highlight what will remain the same. For instance, if they will be staying in the same home with the same school and friends, you can talk about that. If the other parent is just moving a short distance and so they will still see both parents very regularly, then you can focus on that. Keep them in the same extracurricular activities (if you can afford it) and seeing the same friends. Try to keep as much stability in their lives as possible.
Assure them that they will still see both of their parents
Unless this is not the case make sure that they understand that they are not losing a parent. The parent will still see them.
Try to find some good in the changes
If you will be moving in with their favorite grandpa for a while, then you can talk about all of the fun they will have with him. If you are moving to a new town, try to talk about some great things there.
Listen to them
Make sure that you make yourself available 24/7 for them. They may need extra assurance. You want to be there for them whenever they need you.
Updated On: 03/30/2010 Published On: 03/30/2010 Tips on finding a suitable office