Telling your young children that you are getting divorced is hard. Telling your adult children might be even harder. Whereas young children probably won’t ask the difficult questions, chances are that your adult children will. That’s why it’s important to be as open and honest as possible with them.
Even though your children are grown, they still need to be treated as gently as possible when you tell them you are getting divorced. No matter their age, you are still mom and dad to them. Thus, sitting down and talking with them face to face is important.
Tips for telling your adult children you’re divorcing
Sharing with your children that you are divorcing is never easy. When you talk with your adult children, use these tips:
- Call a family meeting and talk with all of your children at the same time. If one of them can’t make it, consider having them join your discussion via an internet phone chat.
- Don’t cast blame on each other. Even though they are grown, asking your child to choose a side because one of you cheated is a very bad idea.
- Be patient. Understand that you may have to answer the same questions several times. Your children will most likely have trouble taking in what you are saying due to the shock of your announcement.
- Allow your children to be sad or angry. There are no right or wrong emotions when it comes to hearing that your parents are divorcing.
- Remember that you are still mom and dad. No matter their ages, your adult children may feel like their world is falling apart. Give them whatever time they need to absorb the information and allow them to ask questions when they come up.
When you are ready to start the divorce process seek guidance to help you navigate through this journey.