As if divorce isn't traumatic enough, a parent is likely to dread the idea of explaining to the child that his parents will no longer be together. Toddlers are young enough that they won't fully understand what is going on. This situation can leave the toddler confused and unable to understand why the other parent is no longer living with him. It is common for toddlers who have parents going through divorce to act aggressive or fearful. To make the transition easier, you should decide in advance a delicate way to tell the toddler about the impending divorce.
Step 1
Cooperate with the other parent. Although the breakup may not be amicable, it is important to involve the other parent when letting your child know that her parents are divorcing. Due to the toddler's heightened sensitivity, it is also important to avoid fighting with one another in her presence.
Step 2
Tell your toddler how much Mommy and Daddy both love him. Relay this reassurance repeatedly to the child throughout the conversations about divorce.
Step 3
Explain what the new living arrangements are going to be. These details should be ironed out before you broach the conversation with your toddler. Say something along the lines of, "Mommy and Daddy are no longer going to be living together. You will stay with Mommy at home and see Daddy at another home." According to Babyzone.com, toddlers have little concept of time. Therefore, do not worry about explaining on which days of the week she will see each parent.
Step 4
Let him know that his daily routine will not change that much. His parents will still love, feed, hug and kiss him. Toddlers thrive on routines, and working with the other parent to maintain your child's routine can help make the transition easier for everyone.
Tips and Warnings
- Set firm behavioral rules, and reinforce them in a loving way with your toddler. According to specialists at the University of Missouri, parents should not let their child do things he would not normally do as a way to make up for the parents' getting a divorce.
