I am desperate to be someone other than a mom for a short time. I have been - for the most part - a very dedicated and patient and loving mom for the last 3 1/2 years (my son is 3 1/2). Lately, I've been losing my temper more than I like. More importantly, I just don't seem to find any joy in being a parent anymore. I sit there feigning interest in playing with them, but I desperately want to be doing something more interesting.
I stopped breastfeeding the second child about a month ago (the 2 kids overlapped), so this is the first time it is actually possible for me to go away. I've got a break from teaching and my husband is willing to look after the kids while I go to India (one of my most favorite places ever) for a week. I feel like I would do my family much more good if I could replenish myself a bit and find my joy again. On the other hand, I fear that I could really damage my little girl, who - while she adores her daddy - is still fiercely attached to me. I'm torn.
2006-12-30 04:45:55 · 15 answers · asked by Allison Allison 1 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Toddler & Preschooler
Your child will be perfectly fine for one week. You can always stop at an internet cafe and send her pictures and call her. In fact, the seperation may help with her clingy-ness.
You've been a good mom, but clearly the stress is overwhelming (esp the hormone change after stopping bfing) and you need a break.
As a mom of two I know those oppertunities are few and far between so take the chance while you have it.
2006-12-30 04:50:23 · answer #1 · answered by iampatsajak 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Happily sit down with your children and explain you are going away for a week and you will be back. Let them know that their father will be with them to help them while you're away. Allow them to call you once or twice so they can hear your voice. Try to make it as pleasant for both of you as you can. If you don't do this in a 'happy' manner - then they have noting else to believe other than you'll never return and you don't want to leave them if they show any negative reactions.
When my children were really small I often felt the same way but everytime I wanted some 'me time' I had to take them with me so I always went some place where I could think and they could enjoy themselves at the same time (normally just a neighborhood park). I usually sat and did a lot of thinking (always watching what they were doing). Afterwards I would join them and play right along with them. Once I did my thinking and played with them - then my problems seemed to vanish because they were so important to me.
2006-12-30 05:51:15 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
leaving for a week AND one parent staying is the Best scenario possible when it comes to getting a break from parenting and it definitely won't damage your child in any way BUT will DAD get a week as well?? also only use such an escape when absolutely necessary and don't forget that including the children on a vacation when they are a little older is a great break for the whole family :)
2006-12-30 04:58:20 · answer #3 · answered by whizbang 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Stop stewing and GO. At her age she may not even remember and even if she did a happy mother is good medicine for children. Also, when you get back, make time just for you during the week. My sister and her husband used to hire a sitter for the kids, and take an evening, all night and 1/2 a day once a week for themselves. Your children need you happy.
2006-12-30 04:58:06 · answer #4 · answered by swamp elf 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Please enjoy your week in India!! Have a good time for me as well. I have 4 kids (14, 10, 8, 7) and I still feel like I should get away every know and then. My husband and I went away for a week in 2004 around our anniversary, it was the 1st time we did something like that together and our kids are absolutely fine. My husbands job and mine take us away separately at different times and everyone benefits from it.
Good luck and have a great trip!!
2006-12-30 04:56:03 · answer #5 · answered by Brandy C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, not at all! It actually will do some good. You will come back refresed and in a positive mood to deal with your child and it will in turn let your child see how much they are loved. Everyone needs a break every once in a while. It will not make any worse of a mom at all.
2006-12-30 05:03:21 · answer #6 · answered by JH 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
GO ON VACATION. Your child will not be damaged. You may want to explain that mommy is going on a little trip and let them know you will bring them back a toy if they are good. Your husband will do fine and will appreciate you a little more when you come back. Enjoy yourself, you deserve it!
2006-12-30 07:41:38 · answer #7 · answered by flirt6angel 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, your child will not be emotionally damaged. Yes, they might be sad when you leave, but believe me they will get over it. When you come back, I bet you their faces are going to light up so big, because they will be so happy to see you. They will never remember that you left for a week. Have a safe trip. Good luck.
2006-12-30 04:51:26 · answer #8 · answered by Jazz21 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You will not do her any harm, when my daughter was that age I actually had to be out of town for work for the better part of 2 months, on and off. She does not even remember it, and it helped her grow closer to her dad, and grandparents. Enjoy yourself and look forward to coming back home.
2006-12-30 13:38:49 · answer #9 · answered by Katie L 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your little girl will only benefit from a happier mother. Get two lovely, soft dolls. One to hold her hugs, one to hold yours. Every time one of you wants to give or get a hug, grab a doll and save a hug. You could even name them after each other. When you get back together, hug each other, the dolls and have a wonderful time. The dolls "saved" each hug.
2006-12-30 05:02:07 · answer #10 · answered by answersforkate 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋