Marriages have their ups and downs. However, when the downs are particularly severe, and a divorce may be on the horizon, should the children know? According to a recent article on Popsugar.com, honesty is the best policy.
Children can likely sense what underlying issues may be causing the conflict and, as arguments often happen in their presence or earshot, the fight may already be on full display. Still, the article notes, when the situation is indicative of significant changes ahead, kids do deserve to know.
The piece stresses that one of the most important things parents can do is to consider the feelings of the children amidst the conflict. If you do argue with each other, speak to each other respectfully, so it is less scary for the children and they recognize that you can disagree while still showing concern for each other. If, the tiff does, in fact, get ugly, it is a good idea to sit down later with the children to apologize for flared tempers. Above all, children should never think that the discord is their fault. Be sure to clarify with them that the problem has nothing to do with them, even though they may be involved.
Divorce and custody can be extremely sensitive issues. If you need qualified, caring representation, contact the Albany divorce and family attorneys at LaClair & DeLuca. Call us at (518) 650-8861, or email admin@laclairdeluca.com.