Strategies to help your children stay strong during divorce
Plan ahead
Take some time to think about how to talk to your child about the divorce. Consider their age and what they can understand. Find a comfy and relaxed place to have the conversation.
Stick together
Try to talk to your child together with your ex-partner if you can. This shows that you both agree and will keep working together as parents, even though you won't be together as a couple.
Keep it simple and age-appropriate
Use words and explanations that your child can easily understand. Skip the grown-up talk. Just focus on letting them know that things are going to change, but they will still be loved and taken care of.
It's not their fault
Make sure your child understands that the divorce is not because of anything they did or didn't do. Reassure them that it's about the grown-up stuff and not about them.
Give lots of love and support
Tell your child that you and your ex-partner will always love them and be there for them. Let them know that even though things are changing, they are still important and cherished.
Talk openly and listen
Encourage your child to express their feelings and ask questions. Let them know it's okay to be sad, angry, or confused. Create a safe space where they can share their emotions without fear of judgment.
Keep things as normal as possible
Divorce can be unsettling for kids, so try to keep their daily routines and activities as consistent as possible. Minimize other significant changes in their life to help them feel secure.
Get extra help if needed
If you see that your child is having a hard time coping with the divorce, it might be helpful to find a professional, like a therapist or counsellor, who knows how to support kids going through this kind of situation.
Remember, every child is different, so adapt these strategies to what feels right for your child. The most important thing is to show them love, support, and reassurance throughout this challenging time.
Dominique Bergel-Grant
Financial Planner, Collaborative Professional and CDC Certified Divorce Coach®
GENERAL ADVICE WARNING
The information provided on this website is intended to provide general information only and the information has been prepared without taking into account any particular person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on such information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Please go to www.leapfroglife.com.au to find out more about the services we offer.
© 2024 Leapfrog Financial Pty Ltd T/A Navigate Your Divorce ABN 58 150 202 716 (Level 3, 116 Military Road Neutral Bay NSW 2089) is a Corporate Authorised Representative (405156) of Lifespan Financial Planning ABN 23 065 921 735 (Suite 4, Level 24, 1 Market Street Sydney NSW 2000) Australian Financial Services Licence number 229892 authorised to provide financial planning advice and financial product advice.
© 2024 Leapfrog Financial Pty Ltd T/A Navigate Your Divorce ABN 58 150 202 716 (Level 3, 116 Military Road Neutral Bay NSW 2089) is Corporate Credit Representative (405376) of Australian Finance Group Ltd ABN 11 066 385 822 (Level 7, 32 Walker Street North Sydney NSW 2060) Australian Credit Licence 389087 authorised to provide mortgage and credit advice.
