# Deciding to Divorce With Kids | Brown Family Law **Table of Contents***[*SHOW*]* 1. Is Divorce Bad for Kids? 2. There is a Catch, Though 3. How Divorce Impacts Children of Different Age Ranges 4. How to Talk About Divorce With Your Kids 5. Salt Lake City Divorce Lawyer There’s never a “right” time to divorce when you have kids. Divorce is a difficult decision, and finding the correct time depends on the circumstances of your life, your children’s age, and other life factors. A [divorce lawyer in Salt Lake City](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/salt-lake-city-ut/divorce-lawyer/) from Brown Family Law can help you explore your options to determine what divorce would look like for you. ## Is Divorce Bad for Kids? One of the most pressing questions in parents’ minds is “how will a divorce affect my children?” There has been a significant amount of study on children of divorced parents, and most of it shows a general link between divorce and poorer life outcomes. Children of divorce may have difficulties acclimating and have problems with future education and employment. Part of the reason is obvious: a lack of resources. Divorced parents often have fewer resources, and time and money issues can impact parental involvement. Children might spend less time with a displaced parent, which can have a negative effect on psychological development. Children may also blame themselves for the divorce, which can impact how they navigate adult relationships in the future. This can lead to patterns of destructive or risky behavior. Get Clear Guidance for Your Divorce [Schedule a Consultation](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/contact-us/) ## There is a Catch, Though It’s true that divorce is generally associated with difficulties for children into adulthood. However, it’s important to note that stress and conflict from a failing marriage can be just as detrimental as the divorce itself. In cases where there is high familial conflict, divorce can actually make things easier on kids. And it makes sense why this is the case. Households where parents are always fighting are full of negative emotions and high tension. Divorce can reduce the strain and relieve children from a toxic environment. If you are in a situation involving domestic violence or child abuse, divorce is often the appropriate reaction to protect yourself and your kids. In any case, divorce is a difficult decision, but not always the wrong one for children. A divorce lawyer from Brown Family Law can discuss your options with you to help you decide what course of action to take. A Calmer, Clearer Way Through Divorce [Talk to Our Team](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/contact-us/) ## How Divorce Impacts Children of Different Age Ranges There is no one way that kids can react to divorce. Reactions depend heavily on the child’s age and your current financial situation. Below are common ways that divorce can impact children of different age ranges. If you have more questions, you can talk to a family lawyer from Brown Family Law. ### Infants and Young Children (0–4) Divorce with young children is a big decision. At these ages, children need the most parental support and nurturing. Young children are also very sensitive to emotional cues and can pick up on the negative emotions that parents might send out. Children old enough to speak may vocalize their confusion and have trouble controlling their emotions. ### School Age Children (5–12) School-age children can be hit hard by divorce, especially in terms of interacting with peers and creating social groups. They may feel isolated and not understand that the divorce isn’t their fault. Older children can understand the concept of divorce and may be able to understand that the relationship isn’t working. ### Teenagers (13–18) Teenagers largely understand what divorce is and why people get divorced, but they can still feel at fault and responsible. Relocation during divorce can be especially hard on teenagers who may have to leave their friend groups at a crucial bond formation period. ### Adult Children (18+) Although less focused on, divorce can still impact adult children who may no longer live at home. Adult children may take the divorce as a prediction of their own future relationships. Parents can sometimes place a greater burden on adult children under the assumption they can handle the difficulty. ![Brown Law Logo](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/themes/brown-family-law/assets/app/img/logo-white.png) Support Through Your Toughest Transition [Call ![call-arrow](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/themes/brown-family-law/assets/app/svg/cta-call.svg)801-685-9999](tel:+18016859999) ## How to Talk About Divorce With Your Kids Divorce is a difficult decision, but there are ways to discuss it with your kids. Below are some tips from the legal professionals at Brown Family Law: - Make sure they know it’s not their fault. Kids, especially young children, can think that divorce is because of something they did. It’s incredibly important for children to understand that the divorce is not their fault and not because of anything they did wrong. - Don’t accuse the other parent. Parents can sometimes lean on a child and talk negatively about the other parent. Forcing your children to pick a side can lead to negative feelings and put strain on parental relationships. - Ask about their feelings. Encourage your children to talk about their feelings and fears. Divorce can be a scary experience, and children need a safe space to discuss their feelings with parents they can trust. ## Salt Lake City Divorce Lawyer Do you have any more questions about when to divorce when you have kids? If so, contact the team at Brown Family Law. Our attorneys have over 150 years of combined legal experience and have helped thousands of individuals and their families navigate their family issues. Call us today to schedule a case consultation with a Salt Lake City divorce lawyer. 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