Break up advice
I have been in a relationship for 5 years, known the children for 4 and living with them for 3. They are ages 11f and 5m.
Their father and I have decided to end our relationship. I have a good relationship with both children, especially the 11 year old, and I know this will be very upsetting for them. I do intend to let the 11 year old know she can always call me or text me if she wants to talk or needs anything (she has a cell phone), but otherwise I don’t think making promises about future contact will be possible.
I’m looking for advice on letting them know and specifically whether a transition period would be recommended. Obviously we will be moving to separate homes. I’m not sure if it would be confusing to tell the children that we’re breaking up and then stay in the home for awhile. On the other hand, it also feels wrong to just tell them we’re breaking up and then immediately leave and likely not see them again after all this time. The breakup is amicable. We could continue to live together for awhile to give them a bit of time to process, but I’m not sure if that will be confusing or make things harder.
Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated.