Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up
How Do I Talk To My 4 Year Old About Our Divorce?
avatar
BirdsMom2006 posted:
My ex-husband and I seperated over two years ago when my daughter was 2. Since then we have shared custody 50/50. We don't have the greatest relationship communication wise but we have remained civil throughout. I don't say bad things about her Dad to her and I'm fairly confident he doesn't say negative things about me (his family members may be a different story). My daughter seemed to deal with our seperation pretty easily since she was so little and I think we did a good job of sharing equal time, kept her with the same daycare provider, kept her on the same schedule, etc. Now that she's older she's asking some questions that are making me think I need to maybe try and explain some things as simply as I can to her. Like sometimes she tells me she wants me to come spend the night with her at her Dad's and I have to tell her that I cannot. Or she will say "You and Daddy aren't together anymore" but she doesn't ask any questions about that. When she asks about me spending the night at her Dad's house I usually just respond by telling her that I cannot stay at her Dad's house because we don't live together. I have my house and Daddy has his. And I tell her that I love her very much and so does her Dad and that when she's with her Daddy that's her special time with him. I'm really feeling guilty about the whole thing and I am seeking some advice for how I can explain all of this to her.
Reply
 
avatar
Lainey_WebMD_Staff responded:
Hi BirdsMom2006,

These are great normal questions for her to ask. She is understanding on her level. Consider asking her if she has any questions about you, or daddy's living arrangements. My stepson also asked many questions and I answered as he asked them. I think it is great that you both put the child's needs first.

Guilt is a hard one to get through. But one day she will understand that it was better for everyone that you live apart. If she isn't acting out or misbehaving, allow her the time to process her situation on her own terms. It sounds like you are doing a wonderful job. Please keep us updated.

Soft hugs


Spotlight: Member Stories

Momma to 3 beautiful girls and 3 handsome boys. 2 daughters in college, a son and daughter serving in the USMC, and my 2 youngest boys are still at ho...More

Helpful Tips

Member Directory
Don't forget you can see who all has joined in on the exchange by looking in the "member directory" to the left of the page. It has a list ... More
Was this Helpful?
11 of 19 found this helpful

Helpful Resources

Be the first to post a Resource!

Related Drug Reviews

  • Drug Name User Reviews

Report Problems to the
Food and Drug Administration

FDAYou are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.