Pennsylvania parents like you prioritize your child during divorce. Co-parenting during and after the legal proceedings is often full of trial and error. But above all, you want what is best for your child. This includes figuring out how to break news of the divorce in the best possible way.
But is there a “right” way to tell your child you are getting a divorce? Does one way mitigate damage better than the rest?
Using your knowledge of your child’s personality
Psychology Today states that there is no one way to explain divorce to your child. Instead, what works best for your child often depends on them. Talking about divorce does not give you a one-size-fits-all answer. You must gauge what you learn with what you know of your child.
For example, you may hear that being open about details is best. But how mature is your child? Will they cope well with more or less information? Do they overthink things? Will certain pieces of information make them self-blame? Take all of these angles into careful consideration before you proceed.
General tips for breaking the news
Some tips do work better than others on a whole, though. For example, experts generally agree that you should be forthcoming with future changes. This includes telling them who will move out and what your visitation schedule may look like. Removing the unknown aspects of a divorce can also help reduce a child’s fear of the changes ahead. It also helps to have a sense of security. You can provide this by presenting a unified front with your co-parent. Also, reassure your child that you will always love them.
