10/19/2026
One of the biggest questions we get from parents is asking "how to talk with their children about divorce once you’ve decided to move forward with the process."
While choosing the right time to start the separation or divorce process can help minimize disruption, how you share the news with your kids matters just as much. Every child is different, so it’s critical to think about the personality, age and emotional needs of each child as well as the dynamics between you and your soon to e ex-spouse.
Here are some steps that can help make the conversation easier for your child:
1. Be deliberate about when you inform your kids. Don’t rush to tell your children before you’ve thought about a plan for next steps and, if possible, a shared narrative you and your spouse can convey to them. For example, if you haven’t started the divorce process and plan to maintain the status quo with both parents continuing to live in the same home, depending on your child’s age and whether you and your spouse can remain civil in the home, you may want to delay informing the children until you have a more definite plan.
2. Present a united front. If possible, both parents should be present for the conversation to reinforce stability and love. Try to align upfront on a shared narrative to convey to the children, and commit to honesty and clarity while maintaining boundaries about the details of your relationship.
3. Choose a quiet time. Allow several uninterrupted hours without school, work, homework, sports or other obligations that might distract you or your children from the moment. This gives your kids time to ask questions and emotionally process the news.
4. Be prepared with resources. Your kids will need to process in their own time and in their own way. This may require more than one conversation and may be challenging for them to discuss directly with you or your spouse. Have information on hand about counseling, support groups or trusted adults they can talk to. If your kids or family already have a counselor, consider scheduling a session with them to facilitate the conversation or be available immediately after sharing the news.
5. Allow space for questions. Let your kids know that it’s OK to have questions or concerns during the conversation and in the future. Keep communication open so they feel comfortable coming back to you and your spouse.
6. Offer age-appropriate agency. Not having a choice in their parents’ decision to divorce can be destabilizing and frightening for kids. Giving them agency over small choices, including whether they want to talk with you about the divorce, can help them regain a sense of control.
Providing a safe space is the best thing you can offer any child.