Christine McGuinness has said that being away from her three children to take part in ITV 's the Games has been a "lovely change," though it has involved some preparation.
The model, 34, has been away from her husband Paddy McGuinness, 48, and their children - twins Penelope and Leo, eight, and youngest child Felicity, six - for the show.
And although that hasn't been easy for Christine - who, like her three children, has been diagnosed with autism - she has actually enjoyed having a bit of a break from her family.
She said: "It's been a lovely change. This experience has been life-changing in such a positive way. Just having time away from the kids. It has been hard, but also lovely."
Christine opened up about the experience to Closer magazine, telling the outlet that Paddy has been at home "taking care of everything" whilst she's been away training.
She said: "It honestly has been lovely and stress-free for me." The former beauty queen said it's "important" for her kids to see her go to work and spend time with their dad.
The Real Housewives of Cheshire alum said she hasn't been away from them much in the past, saying: "I've never done more than three days away from my children before."
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It's understood that a characteristic of autism is an inability to cope with change though, with Christine stating that she prepared her kids for her absence with a "gradual build-up."
This included a visual calendar, so that her children would know when she was going to be at home. She added: "It's been hard but I do think it's a good thing for them."
Christine further stated that she has found parts of the experience difficult, with her admitting that she's anxious in particular about the live shows in a stadium full of people.
The mother-of-three - who announced last year that she had been diagnosed with autism - said she "isn't great in busy places," with her struggling with over-sensory issues.
Christine however managed to compete in the first episode last night and is keen to make friends along the way. She said it's "been so good" making new friends on the show.
She commented that she doesn't socialise much usually, adding: "This is honestly the most I've felt like I've had friends. So that's been nice and I want to keep doing that."
The Games continues tonight on ITV from 9pm. It will continue to air on consecutive nights this week, with the final episode expected to be broadcast on Friday (May 13).
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