Question
Per parenting plan 9y/o son & 12y/o daughter may contact dad at will. Recently, ex demanded I make sure the kids call every day, then started ordering them to call at certain times. He will call/text during school day (phone at home) then later comment, “I tried calling, but I guess nobody wanted to talk to me.”
When kids return home from time w/him, they almost always lash out-blaming me for dad being alone, accusing me of not loving them, raging about how custody arrangement is unfair to dad. It typically takes a couple days for them to settle down.
Last night 12y/o became upset after her dad told her about bad dreams he’s had. She was crying, heaving sobs, suggesting she switch schools so she could live there & he wouldn’t be by himself; it took an hour+ to help her calm down.
I want the kids to have a healthy relationship w/their dad, but this feels toxic. I’m not exactly sure how to respond to the kids, address it with ex, or if I need my lawyer involved. Please help.
