Asking for a friend: My new partner doesn't want to meet my kids or have anything to do with them. Will he ever come around to the idea?

"I have two young children, and he refuses to meet them and says he doesn't want to be involved in any child-related activities or even conversation. It makes me really sad as my children are such wonderful little people, but he just doesn't want anything to do with them. I split up with their dad years ago and we co-parent well without any issues."

"He could very well get used to the idea. As you say, he isn't used to children at all, so might not have an idea of what you want, what your routines are, and how to manage a relationship with someone at a different life stage to him."

A partner with no experience of children can initially refuse contact or involvement. Lack of exposure to child-related routines, responsibilities, and social circles can make the idea feel foreign and uncomfortable. Time and gradual exposure can allow adaptation as the partner learns household rhythms and relationship expectations. Differences in life stage require clear communication about boundaries and roles. Stable co-parenting and established routines can ease integration. The long-term outcome depends on whether the partner is willing to engage, compromise, and grow into a role that respects the children's needs and the primary caregiver's expectations.

Read at Independent