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How to Tell Your Children that You’re Getting Divorced

There is no easy way to break it to your children that you and your spouse are planning to separate or divorce. Your children are likely to react negatively to the news, no matter how appropriate or justified the divorce may be. Regardless of the situation, you are introducing a life-changing event for your child that will dramatically alter the remainder of his or her childhood.

If at all possible, you and your spouse should cooperate to jointly tell your children about your plans to divorce. You should have a detailed discussion beforehand in order to ensure that you and your spouse are on the same page and have agreed to handle your children’s questions in a certain manner.  Try to come up with a simple explanation that your children can understand and answer their questions as completely as possible. At the same time, do not give your children false hope. If you have decided to divorce, the likelihood is that you and your spouse are not going to reconcile. Don’t pretend that reconciliation is a realistic option if either or both of you are firmly committed to getting divorced.

Emphasize to your children that both parents love them, no matter what, and reassure them that they did nothing to cause your divorce. Children tend to blame themselves for contributing to the divorce, when the likelihood is that they had nothing to do with it at all. Explain to your children that they will still be able to spend time with each parent, despite the divorce, and that both parents will continue to be present for important occasions and activities in the children’s lives.

If needed, solicit the help of a family therapist who specializes in helping divorcing couples navigate the parenting aspects of a divorce, including preparing for and properly conducting “the discussion” with the children. While the Shaw Law Firm will help you successfully navigate the legal concerns of your divorce, we often can give referrals to good family therapists to help navigate the emotional aspects of your divorce.

Do the right thing for you and your family by getting the assistance that you need in this type of situation. Contact us or call today to learn how Shaw Law can work with you to achieve the best outcome possible for you and your children.

Scott Shaw is founder and principle of Shaw Law Firm LLC, founded in 1995 and dedicated solely to divorce, family law and child custody matters that must be addressed and decided in the state of Georgia. Shaw Law Firm serves the greater Metro Atlanta area, particularly the counties of Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb, Cherokee, Forsyth, Paulding, Henry, Fayette, Coweta, Newton, Walton, Bartow and Douglas. Schedule a consultation today at 770-594-8309.