How do you handle her badmouthing me to the kids?

Aug 9·1 min read

My ex has been telling our kids that I'm irresponsible and can't be trusted. Found out from my 10 year old who said "Mom says you don't care about us." I don't want to put my kids in the middle but this is eating me up. How do you guys handle this? Do you defend yourself or just let them figure it out as they get older? I want to be the bigger person but it's hard when your kids start believing this stuff.

4 comments155 views

Comments(4)

BBrian M.RegularAug 11

This is infuriating and I'm sorry you're dealing with it. You have to address this with your ex directly and probably get it in writing that she stops. Document everything your kids tell you and consider talking to a family lawyer.

JJoeRegularAug 9

That's parental alienation and it's not okay. You might need to get your custody agreement modified if this continues. Talk to a lawyer about your options because this affects your relationship with your kids.

GGarrett M.New DadAug 10

Man that's rough. The fact that your kid came to you with it shows they're seeing through it though. Don't badmouth her back, just keep being the reliable parent you are. They'll figure it out eventually.

TTravisRegularAug 10

Yeah I'd be furious too. Your 10 year old is old enough to form their own opinions if you just keep showing up and being present. Every time you follow through on something, you're proving her wrong.