Q:
My son and daughter-in-law have two girls, ages 4 years and 4 months. Both parents work, so I came from out of town 2 1/2 months ago to take care of the kids.
I will be going back home at the end of the month and want to know how to make the break easier on my 4-year-old granddaughter, who has grown very attached to me. What should I do and not do to help with the separation?
A:
My heart goes out to you. Your granddaughter is going to miss you, and you will miss her. The good news is that you two have formed a very close relationship that will last forever. Here are some tips that will help you stay close to her:
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Call her at least twice a week.
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Send her photos of yourself from time to time.
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Encourage her to send you her drawings.
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Write little cards and notes to her.
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Every now and then surprise her with a fun toy or a new outfit.
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Make plans to come back for visits throughout the year.
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Arrange for her to visit you.
My granddaughter lives in another state. I do all of these things, and they really help.
Kenneth N. Condrell Ph.D Child Psychologist
