I'm not really the kids specialist around here, but I'm surprised a request this serious was handled by text. Part of me thinks that it should have been handled through you, as you tell him that this is what the kids have asked and that you're open to it. It would be a good opportunity to ask him why he thinks it's not serious, how he wants to tell the kids, etc. I know you don't like to talk to him and in general, you've asked them to express their needs directly to him, but this sounds like a big request that has much to do with the D settlement and your co-parenting.
As a 50/50 dad, it pains me to think he wants less than the maximum he could have. But then again, he never impressed me.
M39 D6 D3 (at S) S 2014-09 D 2016-09
"You can't start a fire sitting around, crying over a broken heart" - Bruce Springsteen.
