3 Ways to Prepare Your Children for Divorce in Orange County

divorce-in-orange-countyDivorce tends to weigh on all of us – especially our kids. But with some preparative discussions, you can prepare your children for what lies ahead. As someone who works with couples seeking divorce in Orange County, I’d like to cover a few ways to talk with your kids before, during and after divorce. 

From dealing with the emotions of divorce to sharing your feelings with your child, you’re sure to find something helpful. And if you’re searching for a more collaborative route to finalization, consider mediating with an Orange County divorce attorney.

 

Divorce in Orange County: How to Prepare Your Kids

As a caring Orange County parent, it is important to prepare your child for the divorce process. Below, I’ve listed out four ways to navigate divorce with your children together.

 

Open Up the Conversation

First, you can talk about divorce with your child and let them know that divorce is quite common nowadays, but don’t frame it as “normal.” They should know that divorce is not the end of the world, it’s not the end of their life, and it’s especially not their fault. Let them know that their parents love them and will always be there for them, before releasing any details of the divorce.

 

Reassure Them of Your Presence

They should also know that they’ll still see their parents, talk to them when they please, and ultimately spend quality time with them. Often, a child’s worst fear amid divorce is not keeping in contact with the noncustodial parent.

 

Talk About Their Options

You should also let your child know what their future holds residence-wise. These conversations may feel awkward or difficult, but they’ll do wonders for your child’s comfort moving forward. Some kids have experienced the turbulence in the broken relationship and will embrace a second home, even if both parents don’t both live in Mission Viejo or Rancho Santa Margarita.  Some kids may thrive, for example, with one parent living in Ladera Ranch and the other in Coto de Caza, especially as they get older and have friendships that span Orange County.

 

Tips for Discussing Their Emotions

As a parent going through divorce in Orange County, you want to do everything you can to prepare your child for what’s ahead. As a general rule of thumb, try to be honest with your child about what’s going on and why it’s happening. It’s crucial to tell them that the divorce has nothing to do with them, and that the decision is for their own good. 

Lastly, try to keep your kids’ lives as normal as possible. Let them know that everything will be okay, and many of the routines will remain. With these steps, you can aptly prepare your children for a life post-divorce so that their own relational outlooks are left unscathed.

 

Consider Mediating Your Divorce in Orange County

At the Law Offices of Jennifer Owens, we revel in the power of choice. When spouses face divorce, they’re presented with a slew of decisions with a handful of potential outcomes. Our attorneys are believers in the best possible outcome, where a former couple chooses peace over destruction so that they can finally move on to their next chapter. No matter your desired path – mediation, a negotiated settlement, or even litigation – The Law Offices of Jennifer Owens will help you achieve the best possible outcome by reaching a settlement that keeps all involved parties in mind. Visit our website to review our family law services, or contact us online for a free consultation

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