Kids and Divorce: 2 Difficult Questions and How to Answer Them + VideoAnswering the Hard Questions Kids Ask During Divorce

Is your divorce causing questions you're not ready to answer? Do you know what to say and how much to reveal? Today I'll share 2 difficult questions kids ask, the feelings they struggle with, 3 healing activities, and how stories can help.

2 Questions Kids Ask about Divorce:

1. Why Are You Getting a Divorce?

   Most children often think your divorce is their fault. I know adults who still feel guilty about their parents' divorce. Perhaps you're one of them.

   Don't say

   It's none of your business.

   Avoid voicing how awful the other person is and don't share private problems like your physical relations.

   Do say

   Our divorce is not about anything you did. It's totally our problem and we couldn't solve it and stay together.

2. Why Don't You Love Each Other Any More?

   Your kids love both of you. It's tough for them to understand why you don't love each other. Sometimes they think they can fix your marriage by:

   1. Being extra nice so you'll be happier.
   2. Being extra naughty so you'll focus on their behavior instead of being upset with your spouse.

   Some children feel angry, resentful, or depressed and choose to distance themselves from you. They may go inside and replay their upsetting thoughts over and over. This is not good.

Three Healing Activities

1. For younger children (under t0) make up a story about a child the same age as yours. Her parents are divorcing. Stress that the divorce is not the character's fault. Give it a positive outcome for the child.

2. Suggest your child draw and color a picture of her feelings about the divorce. Describing the picture to you can help. Never deny her feelings. The act of drawing can lift some of her pain by putting it on paper. She'll feel comforted by knowing you understand her hurt. Counselors call this 'art therapy' and use it with adults and kids alike. (Older kids may prefer talking to drawing.)

3. While she's drawing, make a specific list of at least 5 affirmations you love about her. Feel free to complete these statements and add examples:

   • I smile when I think of you because…
   • I'm glad you are my child because…
   • You light up my life because…
   • You are such an interesting person because…
   • I love the person you are because…

Parental Goal

Help your child realize she didn't cause the divorce and that you love and treasure her.

Conclusion for Answering 2 Difficult Questions about Divorce