[tk1fry]

I have a 5 and 6 year old. I have almost a year. My kids know that I used to drink, they don't know how much, and they do know that I go to meetings a lot, but they don't know what kind or what they are about. When I was in rehab we told them I was in school (every time we pass the hospital in the car they yell out "there's daddy's school").

So tonight I met an old timer whos teenage kid has never seen him drunk. I asked him when he sat his kid down and let the cat out of the bag. He said "never, hes always known". He said why not take the option to drink away from him by letting him know what happens, especialy since your an alcoholic and he might inherit that gene. I think he has a point. He seems to live his life through his experience strength and hope, living by example.

I'm torn, i dont want to keep secrets from the kids (I know that I have been), but if I tell them Is it going to take something away from their childhood? Is it going to make grow up faster? Is it going to ruin them forever (I know its not but thats where my head takes me)? If i do tell them there is also a question of anonimity as 5 and 6 year old talk. Kids say the darnedest things as many of you know.

I feel that I can trust the comittee here better then the one in my head, so i'm interested in other's experiences with their kids.

Thanks