Thousands of kids experience the stress of divorce each year. How they react depends on their age, personality, and the circumstances of the separation and divorce process. Every divorce will affect the kids involved — and many times the initial reaction is one of shock, sadness, frustration, anger, or worry. Adults going through separation and divorce need support from friends, professionals, clergy, and family. But don’t seek support from your kids, even if they seem to want you to. Give kids enough information to prepare them for the upcoming changes in their lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Parents dealing with the stress of divorce have to take time to deal with the stress the break up of the family is also having on the children.
- Without necessarily getting into the nitty-gritty, it is important to be as honest as you can about the breakup with your kids.
- Just as you’re grieving, allow your children to grieve in their own way.
“After informing your kids of your split, reassure them that although your marriage is ending, you will continue to be their parents no matter what.”