You’re divorcing and have children. Eventually, your children will know about your divorce. You may wonder if it’s better for your children to learn about divorce sooner or later.
Talking about divorce to your children is a difficult decision to make. Some people believe children should hear about their parents’ divorce from their parents rather than someone else. If you believe it’s the right thing to do, here’s how you can prepare for the talk:
Preparing your children for change
One of the first things you can prepare your children for after divorce is change. For example, you may want to talk about how your children may be living under two roofs after the divorce. You could even talk about how they may have to change schools.
The biggest thing that may need to be discussed is when your children will see each of their parents. Your children likely have been able to go to each parent whenever they want tp up until now. But, after the divorce, your children may have to wait to spend time with the other parent. Having a better idea about your legal and physical custody rights could give you a better idea as to what you should talk about.
How to talk to your children about divorce
Talking about divorce with your children can be difficult. You may be able to make the talk easier by planning out what will be said before the conversation. If you can decide on some talking points, it could help address the matter at hand.
You may also want to consider talking as a family unit. That could mean setting time aside when you and your spouse can discuss the divorce with your children. There may be better times to have this talk than others, such as during dinner or lunch.
Your children may have questions
It’s typically expected that children will ask questions on topics they don’t understand, such as divorce. You may want to answer their questions with honesty. But, some things may need to be said softly, such as the cause of the divorce.
Knowing how your divorce will end
It may help to know how the divorce will end before talking to your children. By recognizing your legal options, you can hold discussions with your spouse about your future after divorce.
