How to tell kids we've split up

[Tryingtobepositive123]

Hi all,

Id love some advice from people who have done it.

Me and dp split up about 7 months ago and have been living together since. Living together well, no arguments. Separate beds.

The kids don't know (a 6yo and a 2yo) - we have been waiting till we can tell them what the future holds living-wise and give all details.

We currently split the weekends and when its not our weekend usually stay with friends- so the kids are used to a set up where we are quite separate although weekday mornings are usually all together.

Weeknights are sometimes together but mostly split (and we both work so not unusual that the kids only see one of us for bedtime).

We are just about to rent a flat locally where dp will live most of the time and then I will stay there every other weekend and one night a week when he is here. Nesting 60/40 and the kids don't move.

What's the best way to tell kids you've split? My worry is saying me and dad don't love each other anymore and them worrying that we could stop loving them.

We will continue to spend time as a family (some days at weekends - maybe two events at weekends a month - and the odd dinner in the week).

We moved to an area with no friends or family and have made friends through school etc but keen we both maintain a strong family unit.

Dad is dating i am not. Don't think dad wants to get into anything serious but possible he meets someone he likes.

Thanks

Dd was 8 when we split up. The little one won't understand but 'we don't love each other but still love you' is the best way.

Congratulations on putting the children first and keeping them in their own homes.

Thanks. That makes it sound doable!

Switching around the flat/house won't work for long, especially if he's dating. He'll have women in the flat/house, their things, etc. Would you really want to sleep in a bed he could be having sex in? Can he not have the kids at the flat?

Your kids are likely young enough that you can just be honest about not being together and the living arrangement and it will become a "new normal" in time. I'd have a word with school too, just so they can keep you in the know about anything going on there.