May 28, 2020

How to Prepare Your Children for Divorce

Blog, Children and Divorce, Co-Parenting, Divorce and Children

Make sure the kids Know that Mom and Dad are still Mom and Dad

You have made the decision to divorce. You have young children. What do you do next? One very smart thing to do is get on the same page with your spouse. Prepare your thoughts so that you and your spouse can agree on and talk to your children together. Throughout the discussion, constantly reassure the children that although you and your spouse will no longer be husband and wife, you will always be their mom and dad.

Gently and caringly guide them through the transition

It’s your responsibility to make sure that your children are prepared for the immediate future and, again, constantly remind them all along the way that you and your spouse will always love and take care of them. It is very important that both parents avoid speaking negatively about the other and encourage the children to be free to ask any questions that they may have.

You should remind the children that while you will try to keep the routines that they currently have. However, assure them that any new routines you make will help them to feel that they live in a caring, thoughtful and structured environment.

Enlist the rest of your family to support your kids

In addition to developing a positive co-parenting strategy with your spouse, you will need to encourage those in your life to follow your lead. It is very important for children to see that both parents and their extended family are working together during this time of adjustment in their life and to help transition into their new normal.

If you have any questions or would just like information about how Alpha’s mediation program may work for you, please reach out to us at Alpha Center for Divorce Mediation.
Michael Hughes, Esq. is an attorney-mediator with the Alpha Center for Divorce Mediation. He can be reached at 800-310-9085 or mehughes@alpha-divorce.com.

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