Nobody wants to be the bearer of bad news. However, when you're a parent, sometimes you have to be the one to break the bad news. No matter how much you want to protect your child, sometimes it's beyond your control. However, the way in which you tell your child bad news can help lessen the blow.
Step 1:Take the child to a location where they are comfortable. This location should be a quiet, semi-private location in case the child reacts badly or emotionally to the news. By taking the child to this familiar environment, they are more comfortable and this will help them accept the bad news more easily.
Step 2:Create a plan. Figure out exactly what you want to tell the child. Depending on the child's age, more or fewer details will be required. Consider the questions the child may ask and have answers ready. It may help to rehearse what you have to say before talking to the child.
Step 3:Do something special for the child. Let them know you care for them. By establishing how much you care for them, the blow of the bad news may be lessened a bit.
Step 4:Get yourself together emotionally. If the news is something that saddens or troubles you, make sure you have yourself under control before breaking the bad news.
Step 5:Tell them the news. A lot of times, children are tougher and more resilient than we think. They don't want to be lied to or for you to be vague. Be direct. Let them know how the bad news affects them.
Step 6:Find a bright side. Let the child know that life goes on and that something positive can come of this. Help them see that all is not lost.
Step 7:Support them. The child may react emotionally, give hugs! The child may seem to be numb to the news so be ready to help them accept it. Answer their questions. Emotionally support them. Let them know you understand their feelings.
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