Telling Children about Divorce

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Child Custody

Honest and open communication is an important tool in any relationship. When it comes to breaking the news about an impending divorce, good communication skills will come in handy. This is especially true when it comes time to telling your children that you and your spouse are divorcing, and the subject of child custody becomes a reality.

Breaking the News

Just as many adults are affected by the news of divorce, children frequently take the news quite hard. The range of emotions, from anger to guilt, can impact many other areas of their young lives. Here are a few thoughts on the subject that may just help you break the news while easing the pain your children feel, even if just a little bit:

• Keep your own emotions in check when telling your children about the divorce. This will put you in a good frame of mind when discussing the matter with the kids.
• If possible, sit down with your spouse in advance and put together a plan of how to break the news, and exactly what details you will reveal.
• Going along with the previous point, decide who will break the news, and when and where the conversation will take place. If you can not plan this with your spouse then make your own plan.
• Do a lot of listening. After you break the news be sure to listen to the questions and reactions of the audience. Tune into their body language and facial expressions if you can to ensure you are in tune with their reaction.
• Respond accordingly and in a helpful manner. Getting angry if your children lash out at the news will only exasperate the situation. Allow them to be angry, but assure them that they are loved and the divorce is not due to anything they did or could have prevented.
• Input and advice from an experienced counselor may help your children process this life-altering news.

Retain a Knowledgeable Aurora Child Custody Attorney When Planning Your Divorce

Protecting yourself and your children while planning for and going through a divorce is a very natural reaction. The future may seem uncertain, and perhaps even a little scary, but with the proper assistance of an experienced DuPage County child custody lawyer, you can get the help you need to ease the anxiety. The Law Offices of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., provides the care and compassion you need, along with years of applicable experience, to ensure your future and that of your children seems a little less ambiguous. Call 630-409-8184 to schedule a consultation today to discuss your options.

Source:

https://www.workingmother.com/7-steps-for-breaking-news-about-your-divorce-without-breaking-your-kids-hearts