Use these calming techniques
As much as you may miss your child, this is a great time to do things that are easier done without a little one attached to your hip. So don’t let the hours pass by casually. And don’t spend time absorbed in worry or guilt. Use the time in a healthy and productive way. Enjoy your work or a date night. Go for a jog, take a bike ride, go out to lunch, clean your closet, get a manicure, or go shopping. When possible, plan ahead. Create a list or schedule what you’ll do while your child is gone.
Be calm and positive around your child
Children are perceptive. If you’re stressed about your separation from her, then she may create worries based on your modelling. Avoid great declarations of love. Don’t make promises of a rapid return. Instead, act cheerful and relaxed.
Children are perceptive. If you’re stressed about your separation from her, then she may create worries based on your modelling.
Plan an activity for when you are reunited
By setting up something specific, you’ll enjoy thinking about the joy you will share at that time. It could be something as simple as reading a book or going for a walk. Having a specific purpose in mind gives your mind a precise end to the separation and frees you up to do other things until the prearranged event. This idea can help your child also, as you’ll both have this special event and time together to look forward to.
Elizabeth Pantley is a mother of four, grandmother, and author of the bestselling book, The No-Cry Sleep Solution, plus 8 other books in the No-Cry Solution Series which helps mums and dads through all key stages of parenting. Visit her at nocrysolution.com.
