Divorce is never an easy subject to discuss, but it’s especially difficult to speak about with children. Regardless of how challenging it may be, it’s best to be open and honest with your kids so they can properly process what’s happening. According to the Law Office of Lawrence W. Henke, III, the key to making this conversation easier is to carefully prepare for what is going to be said and how the message is going to be delivered. The firm’s team of reputable and supportive family law professionals has helped numerous clients in Dayton, OH, and the surrounding areas successfully navigate a variety of sensitive domestic issues.

Below, they share a few tips on approaching the topic of divorce with your children.

Family Law Attorneys Provide Tips for Discussing Divorce With Your Children

Keep It Simple

Although it’s important to tell the truth, it’s typically better if you don’t share all the details when explaining to your children that you’re getting a divorce. Younger children aren’t able to understand all the complexities that go into an adult relationship, and they don’t necessarily need to know what caused you to make this decision. Keep the language simple and age-appropriate, and don’t make an already confusing situation even worse.

Be Reassuring

No matter how old your children are, finding out their parents are splitting up is likely to bring up some feelings of concern about what the future holds. It’s essential that you acknowledge their emotions and be available to offer the comfort and reassurance they need. Family law specialists advise making sure your kids know they didn’t contribute to the breakdown of your relationship in any way and that they will remain safe and loved by both parents even though you will no longer be together. 

Present a United Front

For the sake of the children, it’s vital to put the differences you have with your soon-to-be ex-spouse aside so you can all sit down together and have this conversation. Presenting a united front will show them you are both still committed to your parenting duties. Despite how you may feel about the other parent, it’s imperative that you never bad-mouth them or blame them for the events that have unfolded.

The way you break the news to your children about your impending divorce will set the foundation for how well they cope with such a major change. Ending a marriage is one of the most stressful experiences you can go through, but with an experienced family law attorney from the Law Office of Lawrence W. Henke, III by your side, you don’t have to face this trying time alone. They will guide you through each step of the process and aggressively advocate on behalf of you and your children. Contact them at (937) 461-9330, or visit their website to learn more about the practice.