To not like leaving my kids.

[ilkleymoorbartat]

Kids are 7&5. Ive spent a total of 3 days away from them. The idea of being away makes me feel mildly panicky and I just don't like it. Ive got a friends big birthday weekend coming up and my instinct is to just not want to go. Does anyone else feel like this?

I'm probably as separate and laid back a parent as anyone would think possible, but I don't think there is a single issue with wanting to be with your children all the time when they are 7 and 3 years old

I wasn't like that really, but some of that was because my husband was so ill - i was sometimes apart from ds when I didn't want to be because of dh's needs. It left a bit of a scar. At this age follow your instincts, with occasional checks on whether your instincts seem to be within the norm for your environment.

Dc similar ages and I rarely go away without them. I've had the odd weekend away and did a 4 night trip about 1.5 years ago. No one to leave them with so dp has looked after them those times.

I've found the anticipation the worst part. I find myself really not wanting to go and worrying, but have actually really enjoyed it once I've left. Maybe try a night away and see how it feels? But equally don't do it if you don't want to. I don't think it will have any bearing on how independent they are as adults!

Hated it, but for their sake and mine I realised I need to get over it. It’s done us all good.

Try and think of it as good bonding time for them with who they’re with for that time (although I appreciate this time it would be their dad!)

My goddaughter stays with me for the odd night and has done since she was 10 months old. We have such a lush bond and half the time she stays it’s because either she wants to or I want her to and not as childcare. It’s time we can have together that’s just for us!

No, but I'm divorced so I've had to get used to being away from DS when he's with his dad.