how do you answer this question from your child

I think at that age I think it is best to keep it simple and tell her sometimes people just don't get on together and it is better they live in different houses but i would stress to her that even with this arrangement both her mommy and daddy love her just the same as if they were living in the same house....

I told my daughter that we just couldn't live together anymore. She didn't really care, though, because he was abusive to me and she was scared of him. So, it was pretty easy for me to explain it. She never asked about him again. (He didn't want visitation when he found out that my restraining order against him meant that I wouldn't be there to supervise...someone else would.)

Tell her that while you care for her dad, that you both felt you'd be happier living apart. Then reassure her that you both love her very very much. Kids sometimes worry if they are to blame for the breakup.