How Do I Talk To My Children About Divorce?

Open and honest communication is crucial when the time comes to talk to your children about divorce, and what it will mean for your family.

This conversation requires sensitivity, empathy, and a focus on their well-being.

1. First, choose an appropriate time and setting that you, your spouse and your children will all be as comfortable as possible, and a place that will have minimal distractions.
2. Plan for enough time to allow your children to listen, react, and to ask any questions that they want to ask of you or your spouse.
3. Start off by making it clear that this decision has nothing to do with your children.  While many of us know that children can internalize blame, mental health experts have confirmed that children need to hear from their parents early and often that they are not to blame. 
4. Next, encourage your children to express their feelings, and assure them that their emotions are valid.
5. Finally, do your best to communicate to your children that your family is transitioning, and that you are not breaking apart.  Make sure that they know that you and your spouse will continue to love one another, and you will continue to support each other, and your children.

If you and your spouse are in a place where you can put any problems and animosity aside and provide a united front for the best interests of your children, your family will reap the benefits of this decision for many years to come.

Collaborative divorce is an out of court process that serves to help you and your spouse reach fair and private separation of your finances, and to help you build a healthy co-parenting relationship going forward. 

If you, or a friend of yours, has questions about Collaborative divorce in Palm Beach County, we are here to help.