Moving kids to be closer to their dad

[Jaidan99]

I am a single mom currently living in Cleveland, Ohio with two boys ages 9 and 12. Their father lives in Chicago and they only see him on school breaks.I moved back to Cleveland to have my parents support as a single mom but now that the boys are getting older, they really need their father. He is a wonderful man and a great dad.

The boys would be leaving my family (grandparents, uncle) but they have their dad's family in Chicago. I can easily transfer my job to Chicago. Is it a good idea to leave my family and boys school to move closer to their dad?

Thank you:)

[NolaRiordan]

Wow, I think this is so admirable that you are considering this for the sake of your kids. I don't really have any advice. So if you were there would you work out a schedule with him so he had something closer to 50-50 custody? Is he willing to do that?  I guess I would also investigate the options for school there. Is the school as good or better than what they have now?

[Jaidan99]

Thank you, NolaRiordan. Those are encouraging words. I am familiar with Chicago as I have lived there and have friends, The school I am focusing on is pretty much one of the best in the area. Thank you for your response!

[lilyka]

How do you feel about it?  How do they feel about it?  How does their dad feel about it?  I think if everyone is on board then I can't think of a down side.  I think your kids are still young enough that changing schools should not be a problem.  And so long as you visit your family I really feel their dad is a more important person to have in their life.

Good luck.  I think it is awesome you are willing to consider this.

[meemee]

if he is a great dad and a wonderful man then absolutely. i would definitely be thinking about it. 

it was the very reason i did not move back home (international). it was tough for me - but i stayed so that ex would have a relationship with his dd and vice versa. 

i dont regret that decision ONE bit. 

a parent is a parent. esp. a good parent. it is the greatest gift you could give your boys and their dad. 

it wont be easy in teh beginning. but i think its a v. generous decision and how it should be - esp. if you can do it. 

and they will have your family to visit during summer holidays. i recall my summer holidays with my gpa. best time ever in my life. i loved my summer.