Parents generally want what’s best for their children. Sometimes that includes staying married, even when the relationship no longer feels right. Many parents believe that waiting until their children reach age 18 will create a more stable home life and reduce the stress of making custody arrangements.
Before deciding to wait, it’s important to understand how timing and family dynamics can affect everyone involved.
How Timing Affects Children During Divorce
How your children handle a divorce depends less on their age and more on how you and your spouse manage the process. A collaborative divorce, where both parents work toward positive outcomes, can help children adjust well at any age.
In contrast, staying in a household filled with tension, conflict, or constant arguments can be much harder on them. Children are often more affected by ongoing stress than by a respectful, well-handled separation.
When Waiting Might (or Might Not) Make Sense
Deciding whether to wait until your children are adults requires an honest look at your situation. Simply staying together does not guarantee stability or emotional security. In some cases, divorcing sooner allows both parents to live happier, healthier lives—benefiting the children in the long run.
If you and your spouse can maintain a peaceful household and cooperate for your children’s sake, waiting may be reasonable. But if staying together leads to ongoing conflict, separation may actually bring more peace to your family.
For parents with older teens, waiting a short time might simplify things, since you may not need to create a custody plan.
Talk to a Family Law Attorney
Every family is different. A family law attorney can help you weigh your options and understand what’s best for your circumstances. Whether you choose to divorce now or wait until your children are older, remember this: how you handle the process has the greatest impact on your children’s well-being.