I love my little princess, but lately she’s been falling to the floor in TEARS every time I leave the house. I can’t even go to the car to get something from the trunk without her having a meltdown. I’ve severely limited my travel into Manhattan and probably go about once a week for events. It’s not like I’m leaving her 5 days in a row… and her father is home with her when I am gone. There are no sitters. It’s just her parents or her grandparents.
I’m not sure how to handle this all, but it makes me so very sad to see her like this.
The other day, my mother slept over and we were playing outside with our bikes. I remembered there was this bubble machine at Stop and Shop that I wanted to get and grabbed my keys so I could buy it for some afternoon fun. Well, Natalie just about lost it! I kept saying, “Natalie I’m going to buy you a present. I will be back in 5 minutes.” She acted like I was never going to come back home.
Today I am heading into the city for something with Arnold Bread and she’s already sitting at the door blocking it so I can’t leave.
She’s just about 5 and I’m wondering if this is typical for her age. Liam does not react this way, but he is just 2. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
PS – that picture is from Natalie’s pre-k graduation. Oh my goodness! My daughter is going to start real school this September. Where did the time FLY?
We then took her to Benihanna (her favorite restaurant) to celebrate.
Leslie
Thursday 17th of June 2010
Oops - how did I do that? I posted in the wrong place. I think I need some sleep!
Leslie
Thursday 17th of June 2010
Tyra should tell Janice, "Hello pot; I'm kettle!"
Maria
Wednesday 16th of June 2010
I'm a kindergarten teacher, in our school we encourage the parents to always say goodbye (never sneak out) and tell their children they are going to be back soon. After that a kiss and a hug. Don't make the goodbye to long. Let the other adult (dad, grandparents, teachers) hold her and make her feel better and secure after you leave. It's just a phase, and it's important that you don't show anxiety when this happens. Try to stay calm and positive. Good luck ;)
Vera
Wednesday 16th of June 2010
I am TOLD the minute I leave she is perfectly fine again. I am going to try to spend more quality time with her right before I leave. Play a game or something - that way she feels connected to me.
It's heart breaking, but as an adult who works - I have to get out of the house every once in a while. This summer should be interesting!
Thanks for all the advice everyone!!
Re: the calendar - I will do that when she gets a bit older FOR SURE. Right now, I'm not so sure she will be able to process it.
ashmeljer
Wednesday 16th of June 2010
I agree with Sally and the others, my daughter was the same way....I think were are only about 6 months past that phase with her now...and she just turned 5 last week. You're a great Mom Vera, thats obvious, trust your instincts:)