If a 5/6ish year old said you cared about them more than their mum?

[DieAntword]

Assuming you know nothing about the mum really but have just spoken to her in passing at a playgroup you both attend.

Would you think the child is just going through a phase where they think there mum is mean but really it's just normal mum stuff? Or would you think the mum must have done something (or not done) to make the child feel that way and be genuinely worried about it? Would you try and reassure the child their mum does care about them (even though you honestly have no idea)? Would it be wrong to try and stick your nose into this child's life over an offhand comment like that? But then even if she does have a mum who cares deeply for her... does she feel that? Do they need more support?

Not sure? Wondering if you could have some breezy chats with the other mum? Say stuff in front of their child like we thought little Jimmy sang that song wonderfully or weren't you proud of Jimmys beautiful picture! Maybe gauge the mums response? Coax her to compliment perhaps?

Did you ask the child what they meant? I think that's important.
Also how old is the child?

I've had a 6-year old I babysat say that. I asked why she said that, and she said "mum never wants to play with us anymore". Since the mum was newly divorced, working really hard to keep it together, and obviously did care, then I just reassured them "she's really busy working and trying to make sure you can have a nice life, she loves you lots etc etc"

No I didn't ask, I just sort of fumbled out a "oh I'm sure they care about you loads" because I didn't know what to say. I'll probably see them around again though. I guess I'll just keep my eye out to see if there's ongoing discontent.

I would, in this instance, assume it was just one of those strange things kids say. But keep an eye from a distance.