How and When to Introduce Your New Partner to Your Kids
Key points
- Waiting until children are ready to meet a new partner improves the chances that the new relationship will succeed.
- When introducing their children to a new partner, parents should typically wait until the relationship is strong and has lasted 9-12 months.
- The integration should be gradual. Start with a brief meeting in a neutral place. Let your ex-spouse know ahead of time.
Nine-year-old Tina (not her real name) confides that her dad has a new girlfriend, Lucy, and that she came over for dinner last night. “Lucy sat in my chair, I’m always next to Daddy, and he didn’t tell her it was my seat.” Tina sobs as she relates this to me.