C section recovery taking it's toll with toddler relationship

[Bobsmyaunty]

I had a c section last week for DS1. My partner has been brilliant at looking after DD1 2.5 years,taking her out and doing all bedtimes and nappy changes etc. It's been fab for my recovery but feels like it's really taking it's toll on my relationship with DS1.

I make every effort to play with him, sing and read to him when we're at home but the outings etc I can't do yet. It wasn't too bad to start with but now he clearly prefers his dad and is so used to going out with him - all I hear is 'bye bye mummy'.

I'm finding it really heartbreaking as we had such a close bond up until last week and did everything together. I've still got weeks if recovery left (although hopefully I'll be more mobile).

Would love to hear your experiences of getting your relationship with toddler back on track or any tips on what I can do!

Sorry sleep deprivation messing with my his and hers! Recovery is taking its toll on relationship with DD1 2.5 not DS1 - he just sleeps a lot!

Congratulations on your new baby
I had my second 11 weeks ago and felt just like you. I felt really guilty (and tearful) about not being able to do everything I used to with ds (2.7). But it has been lovely to see him and my dh get even closer.
Sounds like you are doing a great job. Try to give yourself a break- you need to focus on your health and your new baby. And sounds as if dd is doing okay? Is your partner due back to work soon? That's when I found things got back on track as I went back to doing bedtime stories etc with ds . Luckily he doesn't mind me feeding dd whilst we do this (although his behaviour took a nosedive this week so that may change!)
I find going to toddler playgroups help, as there are usually other mums with babies to chat to, and I carry dd in a sling so my hands are free to play with ds.

Thanks bugaboom. Congratulations to you too :).

Is good to hear I'm not alone in feeling this way. And you're right about the positives in that DD1 is happy and my partner is really enjoying getting closer to her.

He goes back next week but whilst I'll have my mum to help with lifting etc I guess it will be more me than her in charge, unlike now!

Has your relationship pinged back ok now?