Conversations to Have with Your Kids During Separation

CONVERSATIONS TO HAVE WITH YOUR KIDS

Separation and divorce can be challenging for everyone in the family, especially for children. They might not always feel comfortable talking to their parents about their feelings, so it’s crucial to foster open communication and support their relationships with other trusted adults. Here are some key points to consider when helping your kids through this difficult time.

Encourage Trusted Relationships

We often hope our kids will come to us when they are upset, but sometimes it’s easier for them to talk to someone else. Encouraging your children to build close connections with trusted adults and friends is vital. The more support they have, the better they will manage their emotions.

Take some time to reflect on these questions:

  • Are there times when your kids seem upset but don’t want to talk to you?
  • Do your kids have other trusted adults they can turn to, aside from you and your co-parent?
  • When your kids do talk to you, how successful do you feel the conversation is, and why?
  • How easy or hard is it for you to simply listen to your children without judgment?
  • Are there certain topics your kids raise that make you feel upset or uncomfortable?
  • What could you do to become a better listener for your children?

Talking About Separation

For many kids, opening up about the separation or divorce can be daunting. But once they start, they often find that sharing their feelings makes them feel better.

 You can help facilitate these conversations by asking thoughtful questions like:

  • Who do you talk to when you’re having a hard time?
  • What grown-ups, besides Mum or Dad, do you love and trust?
  • Would you feel comfortable talking to them if you’re feeling sad or confused?
  • Do you sometimes hold your feelings inside? How does that feel?
  • Do you know other kids whose parents are separated or divorced? Do you talk to them about your feelings?
  • What can you say to us when you need us to stop and listen?
  • When is a good time for us to talk, like during dinner or while we’re driving?

Need Help Navigating Conversations with Your Kids?

Talking to your children about separation and divorce is never easy, but it’s an important step toward helping them feel safe and supported. These discussions can be challenging, but they are crucial in fostering an environment where your children feel heard and understood.

We know how essential it is to approach these conversations with care, so we’ve gathered top-rated resources that provide guidance on how to talk to your kids about separation and the emotions that come with it. These resources are designed to be informative and empathetic, equipping you with the tools you need to help your children through this transition.

You can explore these helpful insights by…

Bron O'Loan profile

About The Author - Bron O'Loan

Bron O’Loan is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and Principal Director of O’Loan Family Law in Sydney. Admitted to practise in 2015, she has over 12 years of exclusive family law experience advising on separation, parenting disputes and complex property settlements. Bron holds a Master of Applied Law (Family Law) and is admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia, providing strategic, commercially aware advice tailored to each family’s circumstances.

*This post is an overview only and should not be considered as legal advice. If there are any matters that you would like us to advise you on, then please contact us.

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