Talking To Your Child About Divorce

Divorce can be difficult for both spouses, but it is always important to make it as easy on the child as possible. Children should be informed of the divorce as soon as the decision is made. It is natural for both parents to feel uncertain about telling the child and therefore postpone the conversation. The longer the parents wait to discuss the divorce and how things are going to change, the more anxious the child will become. If possible, both parents should speak to the child about their divorce together, as a family.

It is important to let your children know:

• They are not responsible for the divorce.
• Both parents will always love them, even though one parent will not be living in the home anymore.
• They may ask for a reason and parents should be prepared with an age-appropriate answer.
• Let them know what the living arrangements will be and how often they will see the parent they will no longer live with.
• Inform them of any changes that will occur due to the divorce.
• Be sure they understand that both parents are there to answer any questions or calm any anxiety they may have regarding the divorce.

This will be a difficult conversation to have with your child, but it is important to include them from the very beginning. Be sure to reassure them throughout the divorce that they are both parents priority.

As always, please contactRauseolaw if you need assistance with your divorce. Our lawyers are here to help.