How To Survive A Divorce With Children

Are you one of those thousands of parents whose marriage is breaking down but also have kids to think of? In such scenarios, the decision to end your marriage is not so simple. After all, most of your family members and close friends have been advising you to continue with the marriage for the sake of your children. But is that the right decision to make? Should you continue with a stressful marriage or will you be happier if you can call quits? Your children will also prefer to come out of continuous bickering and lead a more peaceful life.

There are many children who have witnessed their parents getting divorced and have survived the ordeal. With time, they have got adjusted to their new life. How well the kids will adjust will depend on how their parents handled the divorce and treated them after the divorce came through. Check out the tips below to learn how to come out of a marriage with kids.

You should be frank with your kids 

Though it is not essential for your kids to be aware of the minute details of your divorce and the stressed relationship with your spouse, you should be open about the things that are affecting them. If your kids ask you certain questions, you should lend your ears patiently and try to respond. Try to help them build up their level of confidence during this sudden and new stage of life. Let them know that no matter what happens, you will be always by their side. At times, your children may have concerns. So make them feel completely at ease by creating special moments, making them relaxed and share their worries.

Out of court negotiations are always a better alternative 

Although you and your estranged spouse may not be in the best of terms while your marriage is ending, both of you should make the best possible efforts to ensure that the children have a smooth transition in their life. Your discussions should be conducted in a clear and calm manner on matters like issues related to your children. It is better if you can settle all your issues out of a court.

The key points should be discussed with the children 

In order to ensure that the transition is a smooth one, you and the other parent should present a united front in front of your kids. It is easier said than done since it will be tough for both of you to come to a consensus but your main focus should be your children. Both of you must convince them that getting divorced does not mean that you will love them less. You need to ensure they are aware that your divorce is not their fault.

Getting divorced in California can be complicated! Download our free eBook, 18 Important Things to Know About California Divorce to educate yourself on the process.  

Gerald A. Maggio is an experienced Orange County divorce and family law lawyer and family law attorney located in Irvine, California, serving the Orange County and Riverside areas. Mr. Maggio assists clients with legal issues including divorce, legal separation, divorce mediation, child custody, prenuptial agreements, stepparent adoptions, and other family law issues. Mr. Maggio has practiced law in California since 1999, and founded The Maggio Law Firm in 2005, focusing exclusively on divorce and family law matters.