Marriage Problems: What Do We Tell the Kids?

So you and your spouse are having marriage issues. Disagreements and conflict in marriage are very common, if not inevitable parts of married life. However, if you have children, your and your spouse’s disagreements and conflict can have serious lasting effects on them. Being considerate of your children and their needs in a time of marriage crisis can help avoid any situational escalation, and it might help save your marriage.

But what do you tell the kids? Before you start thinking that your children don’t know anything about your problems or potential marriage separation, realize that this is probably incorrect. We can all remember how as children we rifled through our parents’ drawers when they weren’t home or listened at the door.

Give your kids credit! They are smart and perceptive people. While you are working on saving a marriage, be honest. Let your kids know that mom and dad might be disagreeing about some things at the moment, but it is not their fault. Be clear that you are working together to make sure you seek the relationship help you need. And be sure to seek that help! This might quell some of the fears that children develop with their active imaginations because the truth is always less scary than what “might” happen.

How much do you tell them? As much as you feel their developmental stages allow. For example, a five-year-old needs far less information than a teenager. This also depends on your individual children and family needs at the time. Be careful to give enough, but not too much, information about your marriage problems.

Of course, every couple is different, and so are their children. Seeking marriage help is a great step, along with being honest every step of the way. Your kids will appreciate the information you choose to share, and you might find that you do as well.

Get More Information on
A New Beginning

To talk with us, call 1-866-262-2729.
If you do not wish to contact us by phone, please complete the Information Request Form.

* Indicates required fields

First Name *:

Last Name *:

Address:

City:

State:

Zip Code:

Please complete at least one of the following *:

Day Phone & Extension:

Evening Phone:

Email Address:

How did you first learn about us? -- Choose -- Friend WSM 95.5 Radio Magazine Advertisement FISH FM Radio Facebook Family Member WSMV Channel 4 Church Pastor Doctor Counselor Search Engine Another Web Site Focus on the Family Radio Newspaper/Advertisement Television Other

To better assist you regarding our workshop, please check all the following that apply to your marriage.

Infidelity

Poor Communication

Anger/Resentment

Lack of Trust

Drugs/Alcohol

Lack of Intimacy

Lack of Respect

Lack of Commitment

Pornography

Financial Problems

Arguments/Conflict

No Longer in Love

Physical Abuse

“A New Beginning” 3-day Weekend (Friday-Sunday) Workshop Schedule
What workshop date and location would you like to learn more about? -- Choose Date & Location -- February 10 - February 12, 2012: Nashville, TN February 24 - February 26, 2012: Irvine, CA March 9 - March 11, 2012: Nashville, TN March 30 - April 1, 2012: Houston, TX April 13 - April 15, 2012: Nashville, TN April 27 - April 29, 2012: Chicago, IL May 4 - May 6, 2012: Fort Worth, TX May 18 - May 20, 2012: Nashville, TN

Comments or Questions:

Thank you! You may expect one of our Workshop Consultants to contact you by the end of the next business day. Our business hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.

Friend's email address:

Your name:

Personalized message (optional):