How do you handle a separation with children involved while still living under the same roof?

Answer 1

You be civil and honest with one another. If there are issues to be discussed that don't involve the children you speak privately, no yelling. The ones that do involve them directly, about school and activities, then you sit as a family and decide. Everyone should feel they have a voice. Depending on the childrens ages, no need to put adult pressure on them. I know first hand it can work, I separated and divorced my ex and lived together for 6 years, our son now at 13 tells us how much that has made him see that not all parents fight and argue. We went about are business of running a house, paying bills fairly, taking on children duties fairly and being sure to have family time together still. We actually focused so much on that that we didnt even date outside the relationship and got remarried, 3 years ago, it made us stronger. Now not every couple will remarry but you just don't have to argue and be nasty, the only thing that really should change after you separate or divorce is your living arrangements, the part of bringing up the kids together is the first order of business and being civil to each other through it all makes for a easier transition for all. The two of you may move on with your lives, privately, but that can work too, the kids will see how strong and determined the two of you are and were to keep the family together and thank you forever.