How do you handle when your ex bad mouths you to the kids?

B

Apr 221 min read

My 9yo came home last week and mentioned something his mom said about me not being responsible or whatever. He's too young to understand all the divorce stuff and honestly it stung. I don't want to drag my kid into our problems but I also don't want him thinking I'm some deadbeat. How are other dads handling this without making it worse?

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3 comments178 views

Comments(3)

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EEricRegularApr 24

This is tough. I'd ask him what he heard and where it came from, then gently explain your side without putting his mom down. Keep it simple and age appropriate. Some judges actually look at this kind of stuff if it keeps escalating.

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DDerekNew DadApr 22

Don't escalate by bad mouthing back. Just reassure him that you love him and you're there for him. Kids are smart and they'll figure out the truth on their own as they get older.

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MMarcusNew DadApr 24

That's rough man. At 9 he's old enough to pick up on tension but still young enough to take things at face value. I'd talk to him calmly without being defensive. Let him know you're doing your best and that mom's just upset about other stuff.

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