Connecticut parents like you have a lot to handle when going into a divorce. You have more to deal with than childless couples. You must figure out matters like child custody and support payments. On top of that, you have to deal with the emotional well-being of your child.
One of the biggest initial hurdles is breaking the news of the divorce. You may be wondering what you can do to lessen the impact. Is there anything at all?
Know how much to tell them
Psychology Today discusses how to break the news of divorce to your kids. The emphasis is on what sort of information you present and how you present it. For example, you should not overshare personal information about the divorce. Your child does not need to know the exact reason why you have decided to split. But you should let them know other things. Let them know what may change in the future. This includes telling them which parent will move out, if you are not co-habitating. Let them know what will stay the same. Being able to expect these things can reduce some of the stress of the unknown.
Work with your co-parent
Present a unified front with your co-parent, too. Do not argue while trying to explain things. Get on the same page from the start. It helps to rehearse your discussion before you actually talk to your kids. Make sure you wait until you are both in good temperaments, too. Your child will tell if you are angry or tense during the talk. Finally, emphasize that this is not their fault. Reassure them that no matter what, both parents will still love them.
