How to Prepare Your Children for Your Divorce in New York City
Are you wondering how to prepare your children for divorce in New York City? Not only is it important to prepare yourself for divorce emotionally, but it is also important to mentally prepare your children. Your children’s emotional well-being is so important. Even though divorce is a difficult time to go through, you can come up with a plan to help your children get through it.
Below Are Some Tips for Preparing Your Children for Your Divorce
Be Upfront with Your Children: If your kids are old enough to understand what divorce means, have open communication with them. Just make sure that you do not go into the “blame game” of blaming your spouse and you don’t have to get into specifics or any details or reasons for the breakup. Your goal should be to inform them of the upcoming changes to the family in a compassionate and thoughtful manner. If you are unsure of how to broach the subject, speaking with a therapist or divorce coach who can help you find the right words and phrases to use for your child that is age-appropriate.
Come Up with a Consistent Message with Your Spouse About Your Divorce: Sit down with your spouse and come up with a gameplan on how to address your divorce with your children. Having a consistent message about divorce will help your children feel more secure during this process.
Give Your Children the Ability to Be Involved in Decisions That May Directly Impact Them:
Even though you and your spouse will have the final say when it comes to living arrangements and visitation schedules, try to involve your children by getting their feedback. Ask them what their preferences are and gauge certain things that may be upsetting to them and prioritize their desires when possible.
Keep Normalcy in Your Children’s Schedules When Possible: It is helpful to keep as much of their schedule the same; especially when it comes to school and extra-curricular activities. Children need a sense of stability amidst a time when so many changes are happening so quickly.
Allow Them to Go Through Emotions: Divorce is not just an emotional time for the parents but also for the children involved. Let your children feel comfortable communicating their feelings to you. If they are sad, angry, or distressed, make them feel comfortable to come to you. Remember to be compassionate and patient with them. Showing your support will help them get through this difficult time.
Need Help Preparing for Divorce in New York City?
Call Sabra Law Group today at (646) 472-7971 to speak to a New York divorce lawyer who can provide guidance on preparing for divorce.