The end of a marriage is a difficult process, regardless of the ages of the children. If you are approaching a gray divorce, you understand how important it is for you to take the appropriate steps to protect your financial future at this stage of life. While the financial aspects of a gray divorce may seem most pressing, it is beneficial to consider how your decision to divorce could also impact your kids. This is true even if you have adult age children.
Adult children can still struggle with the idea of their Washington parents divorcing. Although you may not have to decide important matters such as child custody or visitation schedules, this process will alter the course of your family’s life forever. As you walk through this complex process, it may be beneficial for the entire family to consider how this choice may affect your kids and how you can protect their emotional well-being as well.
Adult kids and divorcing parents
Just because your child is an adult does not mean he or she will not struggle with your choice to divorce. There are steps you can take that will allow you to protect the relationship you have with your kids and lay the foundation for a strong future for your family:
- Avoid conversations or statements that will make kids feel as if they have to be loyal to one parent over another.
- Respect the parent-child relationship, and do not expect your adult child to act as a source of advice or as your best friend.
- Remember that the child has a relationship with the other parent that will continue even after a divorce.
- Avoid speaking badly about the other parent in front of your child or venting about his or her behavior.
It is critical to work diligently to maintain strong relationships with children after a divorce, regardless of their ages. Your actions can go a long way toward preserving and maintaining your child’s emotional and mental health.
Your family’s post-divorce future
The steps you take during a divorce matter for your family’s future. Navigating a gray divorce is complicated, and it can be difficult to focus on anything other than your financial interests during this time. However, with the right approach, you may be able to help other members of your family through this time of change, including your adult children.