Trying to co-parent but she keeps bad mouthing me to the kids

3w ago·1 min read

My 8 year old came home the other day and mentioned that mom said I'm irresponsible with money because I won't pay for his expensive soccer league. For context, I do pay child support and I pay for his other sports. Now he's asking me if I'm bad with money. I'm trying so hard to be the bigger person here and not say anything negative about her to him, but it's getting harder. How do you guys handle this without losing it?

3 comments157 views

Comments(3)

SScottRegular3w ago

Eight is old enough that they're picking up on tension. I'd recommend trying to talk to the mom about a united front on this stuff. The kids benefit way more from that than from hearing dirt on either parent.

PParkerNew Dad3w ago

That's a tough spot. When my ex does stuff like that I try to keep it simple with the kids: 'Mom and I make different choices, and that's okay.' They'll figure out the truth as they get older. Don't bad mouth back though, takes the high road.

RRobertRegular3w ago

This is exactly why co-parenting is so hard. Your kid shouldn't be the messenger for adult arguments about finances. Have you talked to her directly about keeping the kids out of it?