Just looking for tips/advice from parents on this board who have an EX that cancels access with the child - and I mean OFTEN.
My S13 appears to be fine with it. He is by all accounts, a happy and outgoing boy. There is absolutely no point in me trying to cattle-prod "Dad" into seeing S13. Not only do we not talk (that is long-standing) but he cannot be reasoned with.
Once again this weekend was cancelled (2 days ago, via text to Child) and once again, Dad claims to be "sick." It's completely untrue and the same excuse is used more times than I can count.
What I'd like to get some feedback on, is how should I discuss this with S13? As I said, he "appears" to be fine with all of it, and I do initiate some dialogue but I just want to make sure that he is not feeling stung by rejection. He sees (and comments to me) how other kids' dads are, (some single, some married) - sees their involvement with their kids (S13's friends). I'm happy that he seems to be able to take the cancellations in stride - but I can't help wondering: what's he really feeling/thinking and how can I make sure that he is not feeling angry/hurt deep down inside. He's a typical boy, and gives off the "yeah, whatever" attitude (re: his father's numerous 'illnesses') but I don't completely buy it.
Aside from reassurance and letting him know I'm here to talk to, and to listen; is there anything more I can do?
Thanks!
My S13 appears to be fine with it. He is by all accounts, a happy and outgoing boy. There is absolutely no point in me trying to cattle-prod "Dad" into seeing S13. Not only do we not talk (that is long-standing) but he cannot be reasoned with.
Once again this weekend was cancelled (2 days ago, via text to Child) and once again, Dad claims to be "sick." It's completely untrue and the same excuse is used more times than I can count.
What I'd like to get some feedback on, is how should I discuss this with S13? As I said, he "appears" to be fine with all of it, and I do initiate some dialogue but I just want to make sure that he is not feeling stung by rejection. He sees (and comments to me) how other kids' dads are, (some single, some married) - sees their involvement with their kids (S13's friends). I'm happy that he seems to be able to take the cancellations in stride - but I can't help wondering: what's he really feeling/thinking and how can I make sure that he is not feeling angry/hurt deep down inside. He's a typical boy, and gives off the "yeah, whatever" attitude (re: his father's numerous 'illnesses') but I don't completely buy it.
Aside from reassurance and letting him know I'm here to talk to, and to listen; is there anything more I can do?
Thanks!
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