Hiding a layoff from the family, bad idea? (update)

I have been leaving the house at the same time each day so my kids do not notice. I want a plan before I speak. What did you say?

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it 7 months ago, and it settled down once I kept a simple log of every call and form.

Do not wait until a bill surprises them. The longer it goes, the harder it gets.