Common Sense Tips for Introducing a New Partner to Your Children

Common Sense Tips for Introducing a New Partner to Your Children

Finding a new partner after you’ve been divorced can be an exciting development in your life, and it’s natural to want to share your joy with the other people in your life, including your children. Of course, it is important to make the introductions as tactfully as possible, as children’s feelings about you entering into a new relationship can be quite delicate.

With this in mind, here are some common sense tips for introducing a new partner to your children.

  • Make sure it’s serious: You should not introduce your kids to everyone you date, or even tell them about everyone you date. Before bringing a partner into your children’s lives, you need to be completely sure that this is going to be a long-lasting relationship and that they will be invested in your kids. Unless there is a guarantee of some consistency, inviting a new partner into your child’s world is only going to stress them out.
  • Talk to your children: Help your children understand your relationship. Explain why you like them, and that they are going to be a serious part of your life. It can be helpful to do this after you’ve made the decision to introduce your partner to your children but before they actually meet for the first time.
  • Expect shyness or mistrust: Don’t expect your kids to warm up to the new partner immediately. It’s natural for them to feel as though the new partner is replacing their other parent, or to be afraid that the new partner is going to hurt you in some way. Give children space and time to adjust to having this new person in their life, and make sure they know their feelings are understood and entirely valid.
  • Meet on neutral territory: Have the first get-together somewhere out of the home, so children don’t feel like their safe space is being invaded. A park, a restaurant, a bowling alley—whatever you think will be fun and comfortable.

For more tips about introducing a new partner to your children, contact an experienced Long Island divorce lawyer at Bryan L. Salamone & Associates.

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