Some parents believe it’s easier to tell an adult child about a divorce than a minor. Accordingly, they fail to use extra caution during the talk. Even though adult children understand divorce better and probably know the difficulties involved in relationships, their parents going separate ways can be challenging to grasp.
They have spent years knowing the life of their parents being together. Thus, the new reality may make things difficult for them. They will still feel sad, angry, confused or anxious.
If you have adult children and have decided to dissolve your marriage, below are three tips to consider employing:
1. Tell them together and in person if possible
If possible, you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse should tell your children about the divorce together. Inform them that you would like to discuss something in person. Then, allow them to check their calendars and pick a date that works for everyone.
If your children can’t come home, perhaps they live far away, you can have a conference telephone or video call.
2. Plan what to say
Parents should plan what to say when holding a divorce conversation with children of any age. However, when it comes to adult children, you need to prepare answers to more complex questions without oversharing.
Adult children are more likely to ask questions about financial stability, home ownership, estate planning and so on. They may also ask for more details about factors that may have led to the divorce.
3. Tell them it’s not their fault
Telling children a divorce is not their fault is crucial, regardless of their age. Your children should know the divorce is your decision – it was not based on their actions.
Going through a divorce with adult children can be different. Learn more about the uniqueness of your situation to have a smooth divorce process.