My 6 year old is wise beyond her years so she knows why dad isn't here anymore and why mommy and daddy divirced-SHE explained to me after crying her eyes out about daddy drinking everyday and yelling at mommy-and that she would hide under her bed and loved her dad but was scared of him. Kids are wise beyond their years and while it's wise to take a neutral stance, pls don't ever lie to them if they do open up about something. Talking about addiction, etc when kids are young and want to talk is important so the truth is out there. My two cents and advice I have followed from my therapist, my daughters therapist and others on this board. There IS an amazing amount of hope on this board!