First time with just dad for a few days

[Leeddc]

We’re a single child family my daughter just turned 3. I’m taking her away to the seaside for a week without mummy, as my wife has been primary carer over the last few years and needs a break.
Although I work hard, I do spend a lot of time with my little one and we have a great relationship, but I’m getting apprehensive as even still, Mummy still is the “go to” for any pain (aka boo boo’s) grumpy tiredness, and just general gripes and groans.

I really try, and I have lots of patience, so I try to let her have her space when she doesn’t want me, but when there’s no alternative, there’s no getting past that, so is there any advice from other parents that have had the same experience? And ideas for how I can handle these few days?

[SummerHouse]

My DS, at that age, was always incredibly difficult on holiday. I wouldn't do it alone by choice and certainly not if I wasn't primary carer. Is there a back up plan if she gets distressed. Sorry to sound doom and gloom. It might be a really special time. I just know it wouldn't have worked well for us.

[Leeddc]

Well, this week I’m off as well, and essentially taking over for the missus, letting her take extra time out and I’m sleeping in the little ones room with her for her to get used to sharing a room with me too, and to know I’m the one that’s there to soothe her in the night if she wakes etc. So it shouldn’t be so bad really, I’m probably stressing over nothing. I just wondered if others had similar experiences.

[Lulu1919]

Aww what a lovely thing to do
It will be fine
Enjoy yourselves and just take it easy ....don't overfill the days ...try get her to bed at similar time as she would at home etc
Your her dad..she loves you ...

[PlanarJaner]

It will be stressful.
But in between the shouting, guilt trips, crying, bribing and 'where's mummy? ', you will both come away with beautiful memories.
Go for it.
From watching my husband: try to maintain the food schedules the child already has but feel free to be lax about everything else. Kids are pretty bad at telling you on time when they are hungry, thirsty and tired. By the time you notice it, it is too late.
All other usual rules? meh. It'll only be for a few days and then they can restablish home life.

[SummerHouse]

Ok, preparation is key and you are doing a wonderful job at that.

You are probably doing this but talking daily about your holiday will help her understand it's an exciting thing.

We have done a plan before (more like a scrap book) with pictures, leaflets and stuff to say what we will do each day. E.g. going to the amusements I stuck in a load of chocolate coin wrappers. Pictures of sand and sea etc. Also research the area and have wet / dry weather options.

Take comforting things like toys, cushions, throws from home. Take Calpol! (Just in case).

Don't try and make a happy child happier. That's some advice I read on here and it really resonated.

Have a lovely time. Don't sweat the small stuff. Prioritise food and sleep. Enjoy!!

[Longdistance]

When I went back working, my dh took dds (similar age) on a holiday to a caravan park. Dds just got used to him being the one to go to when there. Kids are fickle. Even now they’re 12 and 10 and if dad is closest to them it’s still ‘MUM, MUM!’

[Pebbledashery]

Nothing constructive to add as I'm a single parent, but just wanted to come on and say you sound lovely for a) giving your partner some time off and b) for really making the effort to ensure your daughter is happy and comfortable.
I wish there was more like you out there!

[Mylittlesandwich]

It'll be a bit stressful but it will be good. She'll probably get more used to going to you for things as a result.
It's such a nice thing to do. I hope your other half enjoys her peace and quiet.

[HumpHumpWhale]

When I first had a weekend away without my kids, I was super nervous, I was very much the main carer, go to for comfort etc. They didn't miss me AT ALL. Totally happy with dad.

A week sounds kind of long for a first trip though. Maybe more for you and your wife! I did 4 days and it was about right for me and DH. Obvs everyone is different, but that's my only note of caution if it's the first overnight even.

[Leeddc]

Thanks everyone for the kind words and encouragement.
@SummerHouse I really like the scrapbook idea, I’m definitely gonna do that, I might even do it on the computer/ipad as it’s only a few days away from now to get all the bits and bobs for it!