For many divorcing parents, telling their children about their decision to divorce can be one of the most stressful parts of the divorce process. Parents going through the divorce process are often concerned that the divorce will affect the wellbeing of their children. Knowing when and what to say about the divorce to your children can alleviate this stress.
Below are several key points parents should consider when telling their children about a divorce.
Establish a United Front
Most children already know that something is going on with their parents. In order to alleviate their apprehension, parents should strive to speak to their children directly and together about the divorce. With both parents presenting a united front, children can be reassured that things will be alright, even if things are different. This is also an ideal time to remind the children that the separation is not in any way their fault.
Share Age Appropriate Information
Not every detail of the divorce process needs to be shared with children. Remember to share only the information appropriate for the child’s age and maturity level. Giving children the simple facts while answering questions as positively as possible will go far in retaining the children’s trust in both parents.
Leave the Children Out of the Divorce Process
Especially in times of stress like during a divorce, children should always be allowed to remain children. Be careful to avoid situations in which a child is forced to pick sides, become a messenger between the two parents, or is asked to report back on the behavior of another parent. Asking children to play adult roles during the divorce process can be devastating for a child no matter what their age.
Keep Divorce Proceedings as Child-Focused as Possible
There are many different avenues to divorce. When possible, choosing a family friendly divorce process such as mediation or a collaborative divorce can be beneficial to the children. Divorce agreements can be modified to include language regarding what and when information will be shared with the children. Some divorce proceedings also can include the presence of a child specialist, who can be there to talk directly with the children about the process and changes that will be coming. Many families choose to go to a professional counselor as well to navigate this life changing event.
The Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Assist Individuals Filing for Divorce in Maryland
If you are considering filing for divorce in Maryland, the experienced Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC are ready to assist you with all your divorce needs including the division of marital assets, alimony, child support, child custody and post-divorce modification issues. With offices conveniently located in Towson and Hunt Valley, Maryland, we proudly serve clients throughout the state including the communities of Cockeysville, Lutherville Timonium, Upper Falls, Phoenix, Riderwood, Sparks Glencoe, Brooklandville, Butler, Stevenson, Glyndon, Monkton, Reisterstown, Pikesville, Owings Mills, Parkville, Boring, Glen Arm, Baldwin, Upperco, and Hyde. Call us today at 443-589-0150 to schedule your free confidential consultation or contact us online.
