While divorce is not easy for anyone, it is especially difficult when children are involved. Often times we hear the saying, “stay together for the kids,” but time and time again it’s proven that “staying together for the kids” most often leads/prolongs a life of anger, stress, and regret. With that being said, it’s imperative to understand how to break the news to your children in the healthiest way. Below is a list of great tips to help you through the process:
1) Have both parents present (if possible)
When kids are involved, it’s important for parents to put aside their issues for the child’s sake, and together plan the best way to explain the divorce. Showing your child that you can work together, and will support one another through this conversation will help them to feel more comfortable to ask the questions they need to.
2) Have a game plan
It’s a good idea to have a plan of action before having the conversation. Your child may react one of many ways, and being aware of this will help to keep the conversation on a healthy/beneficial path. Showing your child you are in control of the situation can actually provide some comfort to them.
3) Stress that it is not their fault
The first person a child may blame is themselves. Make sure to express that it is not. This expression should be stated vocally, but also should continually be supported by both of the parent’s actions.
4) Confine negativity
This point should go without saying. Throughout the conversation (and on) negativity should be kept to a minimum. Children, whether they understand they are being affected or not, are saturated by the environment they are surrounded by. Having constant negativity surrounding them, especially when it’s about/from one of their parents can cause a great deal of pain.
5) Don’t use your child for support
Divorce can be extremely messy, and you may find yourself needing a support system. Whatever you do, don’t rely on your child for support. You are their support system. Putting your pain and stress onto them (on top of their own) can make the child feel like you are asking them to pick sides, and completely overwhelmed. Go to a therapist, or seek friends for help.
When children are involved in a divorce, the child should come first –– no matter what. The memory of this conversation will stay with everyone involved for a lifetime. Trying to make it as healthy as possible may save your child from unnecessary turmoil.
Our Denver divorce lawyers at the Law Office of D.R. Jones have experience with many different kinds of divorce and child custody cases – ranging in complexity. We are aware of how difficult this time can be for anyone, and offer the legal support to our clients to alleviate as much stress as possible. If you are seeking legal advice, please do not hesitate to fill out our easy, online case review form or call our office at (720) 443-5576.
Categories: Uncategorized.
David has given my son a second chance at a good life. He was looking at a serious conviction and an uncertain future. David, with his experience, professionalism, knowledge and savvy, delivered an ou...
When I was accused of serious charges that I did not do, I did not know what to do or who to call. After starting with one firm, my case was farmed out to a adjunct attorney who I worked with only by...
D. R. Jones represented a loved one and recently won the case before it came to trail. The extensive knowledge, care, and insight that went into the case was of the utmost professionalism and ultimate...
We had a very difficult situation which required complex negotiations with various levels of prosecution to reach cooperative agreements in several different jurisdictions. David demonstrated exceptio...
In the Fall of 2010, our lives were turned upside down with a knock on the door from a federal agent. Our son, just 18 years old, was arrested. With absolutely no idea what to do, David R. Jones was r...
I stood accused of a crime that if convicted, carried a substantial jail term. My case was also complicated by an out of state component. I called several local attorneys but found David to be the onl...
As we begin this Thanksgiving holiday we are continually giving thanks to David for his help during our recent involvement with the Colorado Legal System. Of the four attorneys I interviewed , Pat an...
“I am a teacher who loves her job. One night I got into an argument with my then boyfriend, who called the police. I ended up getting charged with domestic violence. I contacted David immediately...
My husband Johnny was convicted of a serious offense after a jury trial. He was represented by a lawyer who did not prepare the case. I remember each time I went with Johnny to court, it was like he w...
I am a fairly young and successful doctor. When a woman I had known for over a year and a half became angry with me and accused me of things I had not done, I could have lost everything. I picked Da...
The Law Offices of Decker & Jones
Golden, Colorado, Location:
1117 Washington Avenue, Suite 200
Golden, Colorado
Phone: (303) 573-5253
Map & Directions
The Colorado Law Offices of Decker & Jones are located in the cities of Denver and Golden. We represent clients in the cities of Denver, Golden, Lakewood, Evergreen, Conifer, Arvada, Littleton, Broomfield, Westminster, Wheat Ridge and Thornton, as well as other cities in and around the Jefferson and Adams County areas.
Copyright © 2019 by Decker & Jones. All rights reserved. Disclaimer | Site Map
