Son doesn't want to come to my place anymore

2w ago·1 min read

My 12 year old has been with his mom more and more. He used to love my weekends but now he keeps asking if he can skip. Found out his mom's new boyfriend is letting him play video games all night and doesn't give him chores. My place has rules and expectations. Custody agreement says I still get him but forcing him to come feels wrong. Already talked to my lawyer but she said I need to handle it with him first. Has anyone dealt with this?

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Comments(3)

PPedroRegular2w ago

My oldest went through something similar and it was brutal. Turned out he wanted more autonomy, not less. Gave him some say in the schedule and things got better. Might be worth a real conversation about what he needs from those weekends.

MMarkRegular2w ago

Ouch. That's a hard age where they're figuring out what they want independent of parents. Instead of structured activities, maybe ask what HE wants to do? Sometimes they just need to feel like they have a choice.

AAdam K.New Dad2w ago

This is tough man. At 12 they're developing their own interests and friends matter more. Sometimes it's not about you, it's about what's going on in his world. Have you asked him what he actually wants to do when he's at your place?