Hi,
I know this has been done a million times but would love opinions.
Son’s dad left when he was 2. He was an abusive man so he’s had limited contact with our son and is only now (court ordered) having more contact in staggered forms. In all honesty, he’s a terrible father so I can understand how this situation has happened.
My boyfriend has been in my sons life for around 2 years (he’s a dad himself) and treats my son like his own but doesn’t step on any toes and is just an all round nice guy with my son.
Since my son first met him until now (son is 5) he’s randomly called him ‘dad’. I’ve always nipped in in the bud and explained that he has a name. I don’t want my son calling him that for various reasons but, now my sons older, I don’t want to embarrass him in front of partner and say ‘baby, his name is blah blah’.
Should I say something to my son in private or at the moment it happens? Or by addressing it later am I drawing more attention to it?
Also, my partner has no issue with it but should I tell him, ‘hey, I’m addressing it with my son just so you know’ or not say anything. I worry if I don’t say something to him he may think I’m ok with it?
I just don’t want to embarrass my son in anyway and make him feel vulnerable. My son has been through a lot in his short life and there’s no handbook for this is there 🤦🏻♀️