Currently 18 months post-split, starting to date someone seriously. My kids are 6 and 8. I know the advice is 'wait at least 2 years' but tbh I'm not sure that's realistic for me. My ex is already introducing guys to the kids pretty casually. What's your actual experience? How did your kids react? Did waiting longer make it easier or does it not really matter?
Don't overthink the introduction itself. Just make it natural, not a big sit-down talk about it. Kids sense when adults are nervous and that makes it weird. Keep it casual and let them adjust at their own pace.
With a 6 and 8 year old I'd wait until you're pretty sure this person is sticking around. Kids don't need to meet every person you date, just the ones who are actually going to be in their lives long term.
The 6yo is gonna be more adaptable than the 8yo, just so you know. Your 8 year old might be more protective of your relationship with them. Just be prepared for that.
We waited about 2 years before introducing our kids to anyone new. It gives you time to be sure the relationship is real and also gives your kids time to feel secure in the new normal first.
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18 months is solid timing honestly. That's long enough that the kids have adjusted to the new normal. I'd say go for a low-key meeting first though, like an afternoon activity instead of dinner where it feels formal.