How and when do I tell my children that
we are divorcing?
Generally, as soon as you are sure that you will be getting divorced,
you should tell your children. However, be careful of telling them if
you are only considering the possibility. If you end up being able to
save the marriage, the children will be confused and upset by your
previous statements regarding divorce.

The best way to tell your children about the divorce depends on your
specific circumstances. If possible, both of you may want to sit down
with your children and explain the situation honestly and in terms that
your children will understand. Make sure to reassure them that both of
you still love them and that it’s not their fault. Also make sure to tell
them that you are open to talking about their feelings with them and
answering their questions. You should also tell them as much as you
know about the details of the divorce, such as with whom they will live,
whether they will be moving to a new house, when they will see the
other parent, and when all of these changes will take place. You
should not tell your children about the personal problems that you’ve
had with your spouse. Remember, you may no longer want him for a
husband, but he will always be your children’s father, and they need
to know that you respect the parent-child relationship.

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The information contained on this website is intended to be of a general
nature, and may not address the specific circumstances of a given divorce
case. For specific advice, please contact a local attorney or other appropriate
professional. The provision of information on this website is not intended to
violate any state or local law or regulation regarding the practice of law.