Parenting is a rewarding experience that can present challenges under the best of circumstances. When a couple divorces, those challenges are compounded. Figuring out how to tell the kids you’re separating and raise them between two households requires a lot of planning and professional insight. Working with an attorney helps streamline the process and get your new life off to a healthy start.

5 Ways to Make Divorce Easier on Your Children

1. Be Honest & Fair

How much you tell your kids about the situation will depend on their age and maturity level, but there’s one fundamental rule for all children: Tell them the truth. It can be as simple as “Mommy and Daddy aren’t happy when they spend time together.” It’s okay to let them know that you don’t have answers to all their questions right now—you can always update them after talking with your attorney.

2. Avoid Conflict in Front of Them

It can be tempting to vent in front of your kids, especially if you’re raising teens who may have their own frustrations. However, your child is not your attorney or confidante. Avoid openly arguing or bad-mouthing each other in front of the children or divulging too much about a counseling appointment or mediation session to avoid confusion or feeling like they need to choose sides.

3. Encourage Expression

It’s hard to anticipate how kids will react to the news of a divorce, especially if they worry about upsetting their parents. Fortunately, you can model healthy, expressive behavior to help them open up. Ask specific questions about how they’re feeling and encourage them to explore their emotions in creative ways. They may find it easier to draw a picture or tell a story about a character with similar experiences.

4. Minimize Disruptions to Their Routine

Parents should be unified in front of the kids to ensure their needs are met, so discuss the logistics of discipline, household responsibilities, appointments, and school activities. This coordination is vital for parents who already live separately and families who still live together because it ensures someone is always present. If you expect major changes, like one spouse moving out of the home, give kids as much notice as possible so they can prepare emotionally.

5. Stay Involved

Whether you just broke the news or already finalized your divorce, it’s crucial for kids to have close contact with both parents. Make a special family calendar with important days like birthdays, parent-teacher days, extracurriculars, and visits. Your attorney may also recommend counseling to make it easier for both of you to make consistent decisions about their health, education, and upbringing.

Divorce is a difficult period for families, but the right support and guidance can help make you a stronger parent. Privette Law Firm works with individuals throughout Howell County, MO, to protect their parental rights and develop the best possible arrangements for their children. Visit the attorneys online or call (417) 469-3535 to find out how you can benefit from their decades of family law experience.