How to Talk to Your Kids About Divorce

Talking to your kids about divorce requires patience, empathy, and honest communication. At ROAD to RESOLUTION, our Collaborative Family Law team understands the importance of helping families through this difficult conversation with care. This topic is something we approach with compassion as principal attorney Robin M. Mermans can relate with a unique perspective. From personal and professional experience, here are some considerations to help guide you.

Create a Safe Space for Conversation

When discussing divorce with your children, creating a safe and comfortable environment can help them open up and express their feelings. Let them know that it's okay to feel sad, confused, or even angry. Reassure them that your love for them remains unchanged, despite the changes happening in the family.

Honesty is Key

Be honest with your children about the reasons for the divorce in an age-appropriate manner. Avoid sharing unnecessary details or blaming your spouse. For example, instead of saying something like: "They were always too busy with work and cared more about meetings than about us," you could say, "We realized that we have different ideas about work and family, and that's why we're making this change."

Emphasize that the decision to divorce was made by the adults and does not change your role as a parent.

Encourage Questions and Emotions

Encourage your children to ask questions and share their feelings. Also, a question from you, as their parent, can be a powerful thing. Remember to ask how they’re feeling on a regular basis, even if they haven’t been receptive. Asking alone can be a big step toward a real conversation about your circumstances. 

Validate their emotions and provide support through this transition. Reassure them that it's normal to have mixed feelings and that you are there to listen and help them through this.

Maintain Consistency and Routine

During the divorce process, try to maintain consistency and routine as much as possible for your children. Structure and familiar routines can provide a sense of stability and security during a time of uncertainty, but be open about any changes that may affect their daily lives.

Our Family Law Practices and Other Services

The team at ROAD to RESOLUTION is dedicated to helping you achieve a fair and amicable resolution, and always prioritizing the well-being of you and your family.

‍Pre-Divorce Education: We help individuals understand the legal and emotional aspects of divorce, ensuring you are well-informed before making important decisions.

Divorce: We offer traditional Family Law services, Mediation, and Collaborative Divorce - an out-of-court, alternative dispute resolution process in North Carolina that can save you time, money, and lessen the emotional distress of divorce. 

Co-Parenting Coaching: As a trained co-parenting coach, Robin M. Mermans has a deep professional and personal understanding of family law and child custody matters. We can help parents overcome communication challenges, develop effective parenting plans, and constructively address potential conflicts.

Reach Out to ROAD to RESOLUTION in Charlotte

At ROAD to RESOLUTION, our Family Law attorneys are committed to giving your family comprehensive support and guidance before, during, and after a divorce. Contact us today to learn more. Let’s walk down the road to resolution together.