Pennsylvania parents like you put a lot on the line during divorce. You must discuss asset division. You may have to pay alimony. On top of that, you have to deal with matters regarding your child. This includes support payments, visitation schedules and custody.
Of course, you also need to focus on your child’s well-being during this process. One of the most traumatic parts of divorce is when you break the news. For that reason, you should do everything you can to break it gently.
Know what to say when you break the news
Psychology Today talks of easing your child into the knowledge of your divorce. There are many ways you can do this, but most of the best ways involve open communication. This does not mean telling your child every detail of your divorce. In fact, experts discourage this. Children do not need to know everything. In some cases, knowing too much can also harm them. Instead, focus on sharing information about what to expect moving forward. What will change? What will stay the same? Remove the element of surprise and your child will cope better.
Give your child plenty of love
Finally, ensure your child holds no guilt about the divorce. Make it perfectly clear that you are not doing this because of them. Let them know that you both still love them. Tell them as many times as they need to hear this. Children tend to internalize their emotions about the divorce of their parents. Stop this from happening by being open about your love and lack of blame. This goes a long way in improving their mental health and coping ability.