Parenting Through Crisis

How do I tell the kids?

Tell them together if possible, keep it simple and age-appropriate, and make clear that it's not their fault and both parents still love them. Don't b...

Should I stay together for the kids?

It depends on what 'staying together' looks like. Children in high-conflict homes often do better after divorce. But children in low-conflict homes wh...

What do I say when kids ask what's happening?

Be honest at their level. Acknowledge reality without burdening them with details. 'Mom and Dad are working through some difficult things. That's not ...

How do I co-parent during this?

Treat [co-parenting](/answers/she-wants-out/whats-the-difference-between-alienation-and-a-childs-authentic-response-to-my-behavior) as a business part...

She's turning the kids against me — what do I do?

First, distinguish between alienation and a child's [authentic response](/answers/becoming-the-man/how-will-he-handle-my-doubt-if-hes-genuine) to your...

Kids are caught in the middle — how do I protect them?

Your children's [emotional safety](/answers/she-wants-out/what-is-primal-panic-and-is-that-what-shes-been-feeling) depends entirely on how you and you...

What if she wants to move away with the kids?

This is every father's worst nightmare - the threat of losing daily access to your children. Whether she's using this as leverage in arguments or she'...

How do I be a good dad through this?

Show up. Even when you don't feel like it. Even when you're broken. Your presence — consistent, calm, loving — is the most important thing you can giv...