Re: what to tell kids?

[Guest guest]

I would not burden children with any sad or negative details about why

they don't see grandnada much. Knowing that grandnada is mentally ill

will not make their little lives any better or happier.

I would only say that grandnada lives very far away, that's why we

don't see her very often. Period.

They don't need to hear " ...because she is mentally ill and abusive. "

If the older ones keep peppering you with questions, then, tell them

that when they are *all* much older/grown up you will be able to

discuss it with them.

But basically, for now, I would just redirect their attention when

they start asking questions.

-Annie

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> My nada used to live close by and was very active in our life. My

two oldest chlidren used to be with her alot. then we had a falling

out and went nc for about a year. during that time she moved 1200

miles away and has not been active in the kids lives since that time.

that was about 5 years ago.

>

> I struggle with what to tell the kids about nada. I dont want to

make them feel weird around her. being that they only see/talk to her

for a day about every 2 years. My oldest two children are 11 and 9.

And they remember her from when they were younger, though there is no

close bond now. the youngest 3 dont know her at all. They are 5,4

and almost 2. Any thoughts in how to handle this? What to say/not

say? I'm thinking at this point it isn't necessary to say anything.

And just wait until they are older.

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> julie in maine

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