Hiding a layoff from the family, bad idea?

I have been leaving the house at the same time each day so my kids do not notice. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I want a plan before I speak. How did you handle it?

Kids often pick up more than you think. A short, calm explanation helped mine feel secure.

I told my partner the same evening with a simple plan: what happened, what I was doing and what I needed. It was a relief.