Many parents facing a separation have noted that the hardest part of the process is explaining the facts of the matter to their children. As many Connecticut residents are aware, divorce can be hardest on children who lack the ability to fully grasp the particulars of the situation. The questions children ask, however, should not fall on deaf parental ears.
Naturally, the most common question asked by children in a divorce situation is “why” — specifically, why the divorce is happening and whether or not they are at fault. It may seem like common sense to some parents, but it can be very important for parents to reinforce the understanding that while the parental relationship has changed, the relationship to the children has not and will not change. Stressing that in no way is the divorce the fault of the children is also paramount.
The other important question many children tend to ask revolves around custody issues — where will I live? This is a question that should be considered and hashed out by parents prior to bringing the divorce to a child’s attention. Of course, it is also important for the child to feel his or her feelings are being respected as they regard the issue of custody. It can be helpful for parents to take those feelings into consideration when dealing with custody issues.
Divorce is a difficult transition for every party involved, and it is especially important for children to be considered and respected throughout the process. Connecticut families facing divorce may choose to seek support in finding a rapid and equitable solution to their divorce settlement. Doing so can help to put the entire family on the road to a stable future.
Source: Huffington Post, “Children Of Divorce: How To Answer Their Three Most Important Questions,” Bridget Mallon, July 6, 2013