How do you handle when your ex badmouths you in front of the kids? | DadHQ

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How do you handle when your ex badmouths you in front of the kids?

2w ago·1 min read

My 8 year old came home last week repeating stuff my ex said about me being irresponsible with money and how I don't contribute enough for their activities. I know she's angry but I'm trying so hard to be the better person and never say anything negative about her to the kids. It kills me though. Do I say something to her about it or just let it go and keep being positive around my kids?

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Comments(3)

RRick H.Regular2w ago

Ugh, sorry you're dealing with that. The best thing I found is to keep showing up and being consistent with what you say vs what you do. Kids are smarter than we give them credit for - they'll figure out the truth over time. Keep doing your part and let that speak for itself.

CChris N.Regular2w ago

This is tough. I've been there with the logistics nightmare of two different schools, and when the ex starts this stuff it just complicates everything. Document what you're actually spending on activities and try to keep things civil for the kids' sake - easier said than done, I know.

HHank W.Regular2w ago

That's rough man. I'd suggest keeping your responses to the kids factual and brief - don't bad mouth her back even though you want to. When my kids repeated stuff like that, I just said 'Mom and I handle money differently, and that's okay' and moved on. Kids eventually see through it.