Talking to your children is one of the most difficult aspects of filing for divorce, and most parents don’t even know where to start. How you approach this stressful conversation can have a dramatic impact on how your children feel afterward and how well they adapt to their new lives. Below, the family law attorneys at Brown, Burgoon, & Hartnagel, PC share a few tips for talking to your children about this matter.

How to Discuss Divorce With Your Children

1. Do It Together

Even if it’s tense between you and your spouse, it’s important to set aside your differences and present a unified front to your children. Having both parents there to answer questions and provide reassurance will give them the security they need.

2. Prepare an Explanation

Your children will understandably want to know why their life is changing. Plan what you’re going to say. They deserve an honest, age-appropriate response, but avoid casting blame or making accusations in front of the kids.

3. Have a Plan

When they find out your marriage is ending, your kids will likely have many questions. Provide comfort by having answers ready. Even if your family law attorneys are still negotiating a long-term settlement, have a temporary plan in place so they know where they’ll live, when they’ll see their friends, or if they’ll have to change schools.

4. Tell Them You Love Them

It’s normal for children to be frightened when they find out their parents are filing for divorce. Make sure they understand that your feelings toward them have not changed, even if you and your spouse no longer love one another, and that they aren’t losing either parent.

If your marriage is ending, rely on the family law attorneys at Brown, Burgoon, & Hartnagel, PC to provide the legal insight and zealous representation you deserve. Their attorneys have helped clients throughout Rockland and Orange counties navigate the complexities of the legal system as quickly and easily as possible. Visit their website to learn more about their family law services and call (845) 624-1966 to schedule a consultation.