How to introduce new partner to DC?

[HelloMrMagpie]

DC are 6 and 3. I have in a relationship for 18 months now with a really great guy. He has not met my DC yet due to Covid restrictions but mostly, not wanting to rush things. My kids don't see their dad and my partner is the only person I have dated since having them so it's all new. Any tips greatly appreciated on how to introduce him (once restrictions are eased!) Thank you :)

Shameless bump

I’ve not been in that situation so can’t Advise but happy to bump for you.

I guess if I were I would go with slow and steady and on neutral ground where there is a different focus, like maybe at the zoo or where there’s things to see and talk about. And maybe not for too long for the first few times.

@OverTheRainbow88

I’ve not been in that situation so can’t Advise but happy to bump for you.

I guess if I were I would go with slow and steady and on neutral ground where there is a different focus, like maybe at the zoo or where there’s things to see and talk about. And maybe not for too long for the first few times.

Thank you! The zoo was one thing I had in mind too, actually. Or maybe to the park and to feed the ducks. My new partner doesn't have much experience with children so it will be interesting for sure

@HelloMrMagpie
I would suggest a none stressful situation
Not at your home so he doesn't feel intimidated but also somewhere your DC feel comfortable maybe a park or zoo like pp said, try not to force the situation and maybe introduce him as a friend so DC don't feel overwhelmed, growing up my dad constantly introduced new GF every other 6 months it's was awful as I was made to feel I had to like them because they was his GF' (not saying that's what you've done btw)
But I can still remember.
But I wish you all the luck x

My daughter was just under 2 do a lot younger but we went to an indoor play area and after a while she was comfortable talking. Didn't go into who he was as she was far too young to understand that. I'd agree with the zoo thing and maybe have him treat them to a little something or a sweet

My ds was 4 when he met my DP of 2 years. We went trampolining! It was fun but if ds wanted to we could have easily met DP then carried on having fun without him! Luckily DS clicked with DP straight away and asked if DP would join us for pizza after the trampoline park.

We did a few more days out (park, zoo, local museum, soft play) then DP came and cooked us tea and had a movie night. Then slowly he hung out more. After 18 months ds asked why didn’t DP have a sleep over. Very gradually DP stayed over more then I asked ds how he would feel if DP moved in. So after that we gave it a try for a few months (DP kept hold of his house just in case). DP puts a lot in to his relationship with ds, he plays with him, reads to him and just spends time talking to him. They get on fabulously.

My advice is to really take your time, make sure you talk to your dc about things, remind them they’re number 1 always and give them a say in things. See how your DP feels too because it’s pretty daunting stepping into a close family unit and finding your place - not a parent but as a significant person in a child’s life. Just be pragmatic and take it as gently as you can. I had prepared for the possibility that ds didn’t take to DP and I was already certain I’d put ds first. It is a bit nerve wracking but such a lovely step to take when it all goes well.

As pp have said somewhere non stressful and out of the home is ideal, and then keep it relaxed for a while. I think as you've waiting this long to introduce them you'll probably keep prioritising the kids which is absolutely for the best.