“How to Help Your Family Survive Through Separation” is a collaborative post. Breakdown of a relationship and the resulting separation are one of the hardest times for a family. It’s a time of change, uncertainty, and big emotions—for all involved, but especially for children who have a narrow world view and may try to blame themselves. Despite this, it is possible to keep family life stable, hold on to the bond you have, and see everybody through it. With understanding, patience, and a few practical strategies, you can help your family survive through separation and start to thrive again. 1. Keep Communication Open and Honest We don’t give children the credit they deserve when it comes to knowing something is wrong between us. If they don’t know what’s coming, they can feel anxious or excluded, and jump to conclusions that don’t exist. So be honest with them—within age-appropriate boundaries—about what’s…
