My wife and I decided to separate last week and we're trying to figure out the best way to tell our kids. They're 7 and 10. We want to keep it simple, make sure they know it's not their fault, and that we both love them equally. Has anyone done this? What should we avoid saying? We're planning to tell them together this weekend and I'm honestly kind of dreading it but know we need to handle it right.
I don't have experience with this but I know there are resources specifically for co-parenting after separation. Maybe look into some of those guides? You guys are doing the right thing by being intentional about it.
Tough situation, but keeping it simple and honest is the right call. Kids pick up on the vibe more than the words anyway. Hang in there.
This is really hard, I know. The fact that you and your wife are thinking about how to handle it thoughtfully already says a lot. Your kids are lucky to have parents who care about doing this right.
This is heartbreaking but I'm glad you're thinking carefully about how to tell them. My friends who handled this well said honesty and reassurance were key - kids sense when you're hiding something anyway. Sending strength your way.
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This is really tough. The biggest thing I've heard from other dads who went through this is to make sure the kids know it's not their fault and that both parents still love them. They need to hear that repeatedly. How old are yours?