Divorce can be painful, emotional, stressful, and sometimes even hostile.

With around half of marriages ending in divorce, we know that sometimes this is the most logical and even unavoidable conclusion for many couples.

Sometimes it’s easy and straightforward; other times, it’s complicated and messy. This is especially true in cases involving children.

But with the right approach, it can be a civil endeavor. At The Fairell Firm, we provide superior divorce help in Atlanta backed by compassion and a steadfast commitment to the best end result for you and your children.

Continue reading for a few tips on what to tell your children about your divorce, and contact our family law attorneys today for divorce help you can count on.

The first step is deciding that the divorce is going to happen regardless of circumstances or compromise. Once you know that you and your former spouse are going through with the proceedings, it’s time to plan when and where to tell your child or children.

If possible, it’s best to have both parents in the room at the same time when presenting this massive change. This is something that is going to drastically affect your child, so it’s best to think about how they might react and what you might want to hear if you were in their situation.

In situations where multiple children are involved, researchers say it’s best to tell all the children at the same time, rather than telling just one (say, the oldest). They are going to have to be confronted with the truth at some point, so it’s best to not wait.

Once you have an idea for when, where, and how this conversation will take place, it’s time to think about the most important things to say.

Any parent will tell you that all they want is for their child to be happy, and sometimes this characteristic can lead to us bending the truth in order to avoid discomfort or pain. This is unwise in this situation, however.

There’s simply no way to know how exactly your child will react to the news, but honesty will go a long way in how they remember this life-altering moment. Let them know that this decision was not arrived at easily, and explain to them the details of the separation if those have already been sorted out.

Most importantly, let them know that this is in no way their fault.

After your child gets an understanding of what’s going on, now is the time in which you comfort your child.

Let them know that, above all else, you love them just the same. This has nothing to do with them, nor will it ever change how you feel about the child. Let the child know that you are in this together. In addition, answer whatever questions your child may have about the situation.

Keep in mind that one conversation will likely not be the end of it — it’s important that during this time you provide them extra attention and affection in order to help them understand the situation without stress or additional pain.

One thing that you should never do is badmouth your former spouse in front of your child. This can lead to misgivings and anger, or even resentment in later years.

Both parents should present a united front whenever possible. This lets the child know that everyone is in this together. Blame is not going to get you any closer to a peaceful resolution.

Finally, end the conversation by acknowledging to your child that changes will be inevitable. Many researchers and professionals find it’s best to maintain the same routine whenever and wherever possible. Still, it’s safe to assume that certain aspects of life will be different.

If you and your ex have already devised a parenting plan, let the children know the details. That includes things like the living situation, custody, and where the child will be going to school.

Children crave and thrive under structure, so addressing these changes will help prevent further confusion or stress on the child.

If you need additional divorce help in Atlanta , simply contact the dedicated, compassionate attorneys at The Fairell Firm. We’re here to help you.