Of all the steps that come with getting a divorce, telling your children can be the hardest. You want to do everything to protect them and their feelings, but you also want to be honest and help them with the upcoming transition. Luckily, there are a few tips attorneys recommend for handling the conversation. For the best results, keep the following factors in mind when planning your discussion. 

How to Talk to Your Children About Divorce

1. Plan It Carefully

Your children will likely have a lot of questions and need time to process their emotions. As such, set aside a block of time to have the conversation. Try to schedule it for a period when they won’t be distracted by work obligations or friends, and prepare the points you want to cover. These may include when one parent will be moving out, who will have custody, and how the children’s time will be split.

2. Remind Them It Isn’t Their Fault

Unfortunately, it’s common for kids to take on the burden of the divorce and wrongfully assume that the separation is their fault. To keep this idea from taking hold, start the conversation by reminding them just how much you and your ex-spouse love them. Then, explain how some marriages simply don’t work out, but they don’t have anything to do with the children. Remind them that even though the two of you won’t live in the same house anymore, you’ll always keep a safe, happy home for them and that, in the end, the separation will be better for everyone involved. 

3. Tell Them Together

If you and your ex are still on good terms, attorneys recommend having this conversation together. This will help instill a sense of security and familiarity, and it will help drive home the point that even though you will no longer be married, both you and your ex-spouse plan to continue co-parenting and being in the children’s lives. 

If you’re considering a divorce and seeking an attorney to guide you through the process, talk to the professionals at Greene Law PC in Farmington, CT. With over 25 years of experience providing top-quality legal counsel, they will help you move forward with your family law case. Visit their website to learn more about their services and call (860) 676-1336 to schedule a consultation today.