No Texas parent really knows how to talk to their children about divorce. It’s a hard subject that has made even the best parents and psychologists scratch their heads in defeat. Talking to your kids about the divorce is a necessary evil. Not only that, but it’s important to talk to them about it before they figure it out themselves.
How do you begin the conversation?
There’s no perfect way to start the conversation. Once the conversation’s started, though, your kids will look to you for reassurance and guidance.
Plan what you’re going to say before you start the conversation. You’ll want to be able to answer most of your children’s questions or, at the very least, reassure them that both their parents still love them, and they’re safe.
It can be a good idea to bring your soon-to-be ex-spouse into the conversation as well. Speaking with them together can create a united front and reassure your children that both of you still love them and want to be involved.
What do you say?
Odds are your children will feel confused or blindsided by this information. One of the first questions out of their mouths is going to be, “why,” and they’ll want a definitive explanation.
It’s good to come up with a reason (with your spouse if you can) that doesn’t pin the blame on anyone. It’s important to be truthful with your kids as to why the divorce is happening while shielding them from the specific details.
You may not have all the answers to the questions your children will ask. Talking with your lawyer and spouse to know the next steps of the divorce can give you an important talking point for your children and reassure them as well.