Speaking to your kids about ending your marriage can be challenging. The experienced divorce attorneys at Brandau & Waltz Law Offices, LLP, in La Crosse, WI, advise their clients about how the timing, approach, and tone can make the discussion less stressful for parents and children. If you’re preparing to have the talk, the firm offers a few suggestions for easing into the conversation. 

Divorce Attorneys on Breaking the News to Kids 

1. Speak With the Entire Family at Once

Both parents should sit down with all the children together to break the news. Handling the initial discussion this way helps them see the family functioning as a unit during this difficult time. Also, having both parents present reduces the possibility of miscommunication and misrepresentation. You should have one-on-one, age-appropriate conversations later from time to time as the process moves forward.

2. Tell the Kids You Love Them & It’s Not Their Fault

From the first conversation on, both of you should tell each child you love them, and the divorce is not their fault. Children may not say so to their parents, but divorce attorneys warn that kids often assume their conduct caused the split. Reassure them they are not to blame and that you will always remain a family even if circumstances change.    

3. Answer Questions Honestly

Children see, hear, and understand more than parents might realize. Be truthful and thoughtful when talking to them about the divorce. Especially during this stressful time, they need to know they can trust what you tell them. You don’t have to disclose everything but be honest in what you do say.

If you and your spouse are separating and children are involved, seek counsel from the divorce attorneys at Brandau & Waltz Law Offices, LLP, in La Crosse, WI. They offer over 50 years of combined experience and are skilled in representing parents in settlement negotiations and trials. For more about the firm’s expertise in family law, visit the website. To schedule a confidential consultation, call (608) 784-2050 today.