DC didn't want to go to their dads tonight

[Nighttimefreedom]

Just that really. DC didn't want to go to their dads tonight. Anyone else dealing with this. I wish I could tell them they could stay with me, I miss them so much when they're gone.
But i have no reason to keep them from their dad really.

Mine too. It's so hard. They go EOW and one night in the week and they cry every time I tell them they're going to his. They're 6 and 8. I keep hoping it will get easier and that they'll settle into a routine soon. He's not a bad dad, just doesn't make much of an effort with them do they're bored with none of their toys etc.

How old are yours?

12 and 7.
There weren't tears I think they just prefer it here.
He isn't bad either but very difficult to please and can be hard work. I feel for them.

My child refused to go to his dad one weekend. His dad comes to him now. It's easier on my DS. He was upset going and so happy to be back. Turns our there was reasons at his dads for him being unhappy.

How long has your arrangement been going on? I have three boys 10, 9 & 6 and have the same and it breaks my heart. We are only about a month or so into sharing time between the two homes so I guess it’s early but the youngest two cried in the car as he drove away the past two weekends and I just go back into the empty house and cry. I feel like I’m broken without them, despite the fact I try and make the very most of the time I have alone now.

@mumof3boy that's so hard - I couldn't watch as he drove away with a sad face in the car...

It’s heartbreaking. Tonight they went off less upset and sad and the difference was I gave them their dinner before he collected them. I’m crossing my fingers as tightly as I can that this might help and that things might settle down in time. I’m truly broken anxious and low without them...thank goodness it’s only every other weekend...
I can only see that I’ll end up back down the official route if they continue to be unhappy and sad...it only works if they’re happy with it surely....

My child wasn't able to hide their feelings. Their unhappiness was so clear. How can it be "for the best" to put them through it ?