So sorry to have missed the info that he did, indeed marry OW. I kept THINKING he might have, but I'm also human, not divine..and therefore do not "see" everything.
I do think he's seeing the damage he's done, but since he's married OW, it's TOO LATE now to really "fix" anything except maybe his relationship with his son. I'm guessing he's also seeing the haste in which he acted...I would not want to be in his shoes.
It will be most interesting to see what happens next.
Regarding the "children" within, EVERY person contains them..we are comprised of bits and pieces within our psyche..although we eventually grow up in body, our emotional growth occurs throughout our life, and childhood wounds that need healing are a more common occurrence than people realize...mostly showing up during the Midlife transition that can turn into a crisis.
OP found an interesting link that he's posted, and it's an interesting read, backing up what I'd seen in my husband.
I, too, remember the childlike feelings that surfaced during my transition..and remember at least ONE child clearly that actually talked to my husband before disappearing/settling within.
It sounds crazy, but it's true.
Remember, as each person is different, every MLC/Transition is different..what works for one may not work for another. Most of the time it is trial and error for ALL involved.
