Should we tell the kids we're changing the schedule?

Jan 5·1 min read

My ex and I finally agreed on switching from 5/2 to 50/50 starting next month. We're both nervous about how to tell the kids (7, 10, 13) without making it seem like a huge deal but also acknowledging it's a change. My 13yo is definitely gonna have opinions lol. Are we supposed to tell them together, separately, in advance, like a week before? What did y'all do? Want to get this right because they've been asking more questions about why the schedule is what it is.

5 comments139 views

Comments(5)

MMarvin T.RegularJan 6

The best thing we did was frame it as something exciting for the kids. More time with dad, more time with mom. Both of you being happy about it goes a long way. Kids pick up on tension.

RRuben A.RegularJan 7

Honestly the kids will be fine with it. It's the two of you figuring out the new routine that's gonna take some work. Make sure you have a solid plan for school stuff and activities before you tell them.

PPatrick M.New DadJan 7

The kids will ask why it's changing. Have a simple answer ready. We just said 'mom and dad both want to spend the same amount of time with you so we're switching things around.' Done.

EEd P.RegularJan 8

Our co-parent and I handled this really poorly at first. We told the kids and then immediately started trash talking each other about the schedule. That was dumb. Keep the kids out of the logistics conversation.

MMatthewNew DadJan 8

50/50 is a big change from 5/2. I'd suggest telling them like 2 weeks before it starts so they're not blindsided but not so far ahead that they stress about it. Keep it simple and positive.