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Whisk Me Away…
Thursday, May 26, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
I admit it. I am totally jealous. Kind of.
My little munchkin is four years plus. I haven’t left for a night. Not ever. Not once.
Now, if you’ve been a parent for any length of time, you know that parenthood can be exhausting. There are sleepless nights and days, as well as feeding, playing, and running around. It makes me tired just thinking about it. Oh yes, I’ve loved the journey, but every now and then I do dream of sleeping in, lounging for more than a minute, holding hands with the hubby, and finishing a conversation over a leisurely long dinner. It’s been years. Sigh.
With all that said, I’m just not ready to ship the kiddo off for the night. To anyone or anywhere. I don’t think she is ready either.
So, when recently learning that one of my neighborhood buddies was about to partake in a long weekend road trip – to the beach nonetheless – it made me revisit the idea of when and how both me and my kiddo might be ready for an independent adventure.
Have you left your little one for a night?
How do you know when they or you are ready?
How do you plan for such an occasion?
Well, in the spirit of planning ahead, I offer up this developmentally appropriate advice for preparing your little one for their first night away from you:
- Communicate the plan. No matter how small your little one is, they DO know. Respect your child and tell them what, when, where, and why they will be going.
- Pack everything they will need, including the kitchen sink if it will ensure their comfort! Seriously, don’t forget the favorite blankie, the preferred nook, their “lovie,” and anything else that seems to support your child’s sense of security.
- Leave directions. I pity the person who takes my child for their first overnight. I am sure I will write a book. What does someone really need to care for your child? Communicate information about your child’s routines and preferences. Share tricks and tips for soothing your wee one back to sleep.
If you’ve heard that it will be harder on you than them, it’s probably true. Munchkins are amazingly resilient. However, there’s no need to rush into having a night away from your little one.
As I often think, before long they will probably be running out the door waving good-bye.
I’ll enjoy every moment that they want to be with me right now.
And you?
