Talking to Kids: Separation Day

The actual day one parent moves out of the home is often very stressful for everyone.

Some parents choose to involve their children in the move, others choose to move when the children are not around. Some parents have found it helpful to have both parents visit the new living quarters with the children. What you decide to do will depend on how well you and your separating partner are managing conflict, communicating and cooperating (Steps 1 and 2). This involves how well each parent has coped and accepted the separation thus far, and the type of separation you decide upon and whether it offers any hope for reconciliation.

Step 7 Workbook Questions will guide you through making a plan for separation day.

The important part of this is having a plan and preparing the children before a parent actually moves out. I have heard many stories of children coming home from school and seeing that dad's things are gone and he has moved out without ever having been told.