My ex and I split at the end of January 2025. We didn’t tell our just 5yr old and18 month old at the time and we were still living together and didn’t want to cause them confusion. My 5yr daughter would have struggled with the concept of us being separated but still living in the same house. My ex said that he would move out of the family home but is still here 16 months later and is refusing to leave. We’re currently due in court in August for the FDR as we can’t agree on finances so it’s very tense in the house.
I’ve been a SAHM so haven’t had the financial resources to move out and rent and am hunting like mad now to find a job but didn’t realise how tough the market is for a 45yr old who’s been out of work for six years. Anyway, he’s a very high earner and has ££££ pre-marital savings but has refused to move out, even part-time. Our 6yr old daughter keeps asking why we don’t do anything together, see family or go on holiday together and it’s getting harder and harder to explain to her. We tell her that her dad has to work but she’s starting to become more troubled by it. She also asks why he sleeps in a separate room.
I’m getting increase pressure from my parents to tell our kids and I understand them but surely it would be better when we have a clear timeline? My ex also keeps sending me messages telling me how sad our daughter is that he can’t come to my family events and holidays - he’s the one causing all the divorce delays!
Also, this living arrangement could go on for another year if we end up going to a final hearing (which I don’t want) but I also want a fair financial settlement.
Has anyone been in a position where they’ve told their young children that they’re divorced but still have to live together?
thanks