If your marriage is over but your children are still at home, you may find yourself asking one of the hardest questions you’ve had to face: Should I wait until the kids are grown to get divorced?
It may feel like the "right" thing to do. Staying together might seem like the least disruptive path for them. But that decision comes with consequences that may surprise you.
The Possible Pros of Waiting
- Maintaining a Sense of Stability
Many women choose to wait in the hopes of protecting their children from major life disruptions. The familiar routine of home, school, and two parents under one roof can feel like an anchor, especially during formative years.
- Time to Prepare Financially
Waiting may allow you to quietly get your financial house in order, securing your own income, building credit, and planning for a future that doesn’t depend on your spouse.
- Avoiding Big Disruptions
Milestones like college applications, sports championships, or high school graduation feel sacred. Some spouses choose to delay divorce to avoid tainting these experiences for their children.
The Real Risks of Waiting
- Your Kids May Already Know
Children can be far more perceptive than we often give them credit for. Tension, silence, or subtle hostility can be more unsettling than an honest, respectful separation.
- You May Lose Yourself
Staying in a marriage that is emotionally draining can slowly chip away at your self-esteem, happiness, and energy. Putting your own well-being on hold for years isn't a neutral decision. It's a sacrifice with real costs.
- Modeling Silence Over Strength
Whether you leave or stay, your children are watching. They learn not only from what you say, but from what you tolerate. Showing them that self-respect, courage, and boundaries matter can have a bigger impact than shielding them from short-term pain.
So, the big question to ask yourself is, ‘Should I Wait?’
There’s no perfect timing. And there’s certainly no judgment here. But know that waiting might feel easier today, but it’s worth asking if it will be harder tomorrow. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
At Florida Women’s Law Group, we help women like you get the clarity, strategy, and support needed to make empowered decisions, whether you're ready to divorce now or just need a safe space to explore your options.
You deserve peace of mind and a happier future. Call us at 904-900-2419 or schedule a call here! Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to advocating for women's rights and best interests. Take the first step towards a brighter future for you and your family today.
