My 7 year old asked me this last night after I picked him up. I tried to explain it wasn't about him and that we both love him but it's hard to explain divorce to a kid. He seemed satisfied but I've been thinking about it all day. Did I handle it right? My ex and I agreed to be civil but I don't know if I should bring this conversation up with her or just let it go.
Man that's rough. All you can do is reassure him it's not his fault, you both love him the same, and that some grown up things just happen. But the real proof is going to be consistency. Make sure Friday pickups stay solid.
That's a tough conversation, man. I just told my kids that sometimes grown-ups realize they're better apart, but it doesn't change how much we love them. Keeping it simple helped more than I expected.
You're doing the right thing by being honest. My oldest asked me the same thing and honestly, just reassuring him over and over that it wasn't his fault seemed to matter most. Hang in there.
Seven is old enough to know something shifted but too young to understand the real reasons. I'd keep it simple, age appropriate, and make extra sure my actions show him nothing changed about being his dad. Show up, be present, don't badmouth mom.
I'm not in your situation yet but I can't imagine how that lands. Kids pick up on everything though. As long as you're showing up and being stable on your end he'll eventually understand it's not his fault. That's the message that sticks.
Sign in to join the conversation.
That's a heavy question from a seven year old. The fact that he asked means he's processing it. I'd keep reinforcing that you both love him and that adults sometimes grow apart but parents never stop being parents. He'll believe it more from actions than words though.