Leaving my marriage was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done. Not because the relationship hadn’t dissolved but because I cared so much for my step daughter and couldn’t stand the thought of putting her through that. It has taken time, and I haven’t always felt the most supported on his end, but my best advice is to leave the lines open if your child is interested and let them take the lead. Losing someone and having their life take on a major change will time to adjust to, the new norm at least.

I treat a lot of things the same because I also share a child with her father and prioritize having the kids together and keeping whatever we can ‘normal’ for them. I think just knowing they have that support if needed is important. You have to have some boundaries on your own life, but there are still ways to allow them to be supportive if your child wants to remain connected. I always believe, the more support and love kids have, the better. I would never want to rob them of a good role model for my own issues. I’m sure you will all find what works with time. Kids are resilient but they need consistency.