When you are ready to file for divorce, it can be difficult to talk about it. If you have kids, it can be even more difficult to break the news to them. According to Today’s Parent, you should approach the subject differently for children in different age groups. After all, a child under the age of five will have a very different perception than a child over the age of 10.
When you understand where your kid is developmentally, you can prepare yourself for a conversation about divorce.
Talking to kids under five
Children under the age of five are dependent on you and your spouse. They may be able to think about feelings, but they cannot speak to them very well. They have a minimal perception of cause and effect.
You need to be nurturing. Children need to know that their world will remain stable. Try to adhere to everyday routines.
Talking to kids under 11
When you have kids between the ages of six and eight, they may want to talk about their feelings. They are not as egocentric as younger kids, but they still do not have a strong understanding of divorce complexities. You may need to talk indirectly to help your children discuss their feelings.
Nine to 11-year-olds, on the other hand, can discuss more complex issues than kids under the age of nine. Kids in this age bracket are more likely to assign blame to the divorce. With older children, you need to keep the door for communication open.
Children do best after a divorce if they have a strong relationship with their parents.
