3 things to consider as you tell your children about your divorce

Divorce can be a lot for a family to handle. Eventually, your children will learn about the divorce. As a parent, you may be struggling with the idea of how to talk to your children about the news before they learn it from someone else. 

Talking to your children about divorce shouldn’t be difficult. Here are three things to keep in mind::

1. Choose your timing carefully

The biggest issue many parents face as they discuss their divorce with their children is deciding when the appropriate time is to break the news. The fear is often that talking about the divorce at the wrong time will leave a lasting impression on a child. 

Many parents find it best to talk to their children together, when they know that their children will have some time to absorb the information without being pressured by school or other activities.

2. Choose your words even more carefully

A divorce is a complicated matter between adults. Your children don’t need to know the details. You may want to be honest about why the divorce is happening – but without casting blame on either parent. It’s enough to say that you simply don’t work well as a married couple.

Additionally, it may help your children understand the matter if you talk about the future after your divorce so that they have some answers to their most pressing questions.

3. Expect your children to need some time

Once you discuss your divorce with your children, you may not know what to expect. Depending on your children’s ages, they may react differently. It may help to give your children space after the talk so that they can process the news, but you may also want to remind your children that you’re there for them. It can also help to be open when your children have questions. 

You may not know what to say to your children until you know more about your divorce. Reaching out for legal help can make it easier to navigate your divorce options.