Deciding to end your marriage is never easy, but telling your children that you’re filing for divorce may be even harder. Even if they’re sure they’re making the right decision, many parents are afraid to discuss the matter with their children, choosing to rush the conversation or provide brief answers instead of engaging in a thorough, difficult conversation. Many divorce lawyers who have seen the process play out before encourage all parents to approach the issue with honesty and a plan already in place.

4 Tips for Telling Your Children About Divorce

1. Do It Together

No matter how bitter your relationship with your spouse has become, it’s important to present a unified front to your children. Otherwise, they may feel abandoned by the absent parent, regardless of anything you have to say to the contrary. It’s also important to have the conversation at home, rather than in a public place where they may not feel free to express themselves.

2. Be Honest About the Reasons

Naturally, your children will want to know why your marriage is ending. Rather than deflecting or offering vague responses, which may be more comfortable, prepare an explanation appropriate for their age. Without a concrete explanation for the dissolution, children have a tendency to blame themselves for their parents’ divorce.

3. Avoid Fighting

Even if you feel very strongly that the divorce is your spouse’s fault, avoid fighting or blaming one another in front of your children. This will make them feel as though they have to choose a side, so limit arguing to your divorce lawyer’s office.

4. Have a Plan in Place

Facing a divorce is an uncertain experience, so knowing in advance where your children will live and when they will see each parent will provide the stability they need. If possible, try working with a divorce lawyer to work out a parenting plan to make the process as smooth as possible so you can begin rebuilding your life.

If you’re going through a divorce, the right legal representation can reduce the stress and help ensure your rights are respected. As a full-service legal firm, Greene Law, PC has extensive experience serving families throughout Farmington, CT, providing high-quality legal service in a wide range of family law situations. Visit their website or call (860) 676-1336 to speak with a skilled divorce lawyer, and follow their Facebook for more helpful tips and advice.