If you’re a divorcing parent with younger children, it can be difficult to approach the topic with your kids. As you work with your divorce lawyer, make sure to follow certain steps that will help your children adjust to this unexpected transition as smoothly as possible. The following tips can make it easier to talk with young children and preteens about divorce.

3 Tips for Approaching the Topic of Divorce With Young Children

1. Show Unity

Going through divorce creates uncertainty in children’s minds. If it’s appropriate and safe to do so, you and your divorcing partner should be together when you tell your children about the divorce. Showing a spirit of togetherness despite the split helps kids cope with the separation. As much as possible, maintain their regular school and after-school activities, as well as their home responsibilities and social obligations.  

2. Express Love

Make it clear to your kids that despite the changes happening in the family, you and their other parent love them and always will. Demonstrate your continuing love with consistent actions, including hugs, spending one-on-one time together, and communicating often when you are apart. 

3. Be Honest & Straightforward

When discussing the issue of divorce with your children, use words they understand. Reassure them the divorce is not their fault, and let them ask questions. Be honest, but use common sense. Don’t go into details about more mature topics, and don’t give the impression that you and your spouse may get back together in the future. 

When you are planning for divorce and have children, seek advice and counsel from the divorce lawyers at MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., in Middletown, NY. A full-service law firm with more than 130 years of experience serving Hudson Valley residents, these attorneys guide divorcing parents through the complex legal process with skill and compassion. Visit their website now to learn more about their full range of services. To schedule a confidential consultation, call (845) 343-3000.