Age Appropriate Responses (Where is Daddy?)

[JaydensYummyMummy]

Hello...

(I posted this in Lone Parents but haven't received a response. I am hoping some of you will have good responses for me here. Thank you)

My son is 23mo. Its just him and I. His Dad provides for him (us) financially and does whatever I ask of him. He's a good man but we can't be together. He sees our son every couple of weeks and when he buys gifts etc for him, I tell him "This is from Daddy". He also has a picture of his dad in his room.

My son is at the stage where he screams "Daddy, Daddy" when he's crying, wants something and I say no but I don't think think he really knows Daddy is not on the scene yet.

My questions are;

1. At what age should I expect him to ask about Daddy?
2. What are the age appropriate responses I should have ready?

Thank you....

When my kids ask awkward questions, I always go as close to the truth as I can and say things simply and bluntly. One day, the things you tell him now will need to grow into the truth. I just make sure I don't say anything frightening.

Where is daddy: Daddy is in Daddy's house. He lives there and we live here. Daddy loves you.

When he goes to school I would think he would ask why daddy does not live with you because X's daddy lives with him etc. Depending on development etc, he could ask you this 18 months prior to going to school I would think.

Bluebobbin, thank you.

Do they feel sad - I mean, when they asked you, were they sad or just curious?

I don't think children feel "sad" like adults do. They are more likely to feel sad and cry about a dropped sweet or lost toy at such a young age.

They often accept things that are told to them in a straightforward and happy manner much more easily than an adult could.

That's a relief...I should be able to do "straightforward and happy manner".

He is happy with me, I'm the only parent he's known after all, and he is a sweet boy and bonds really well with people. My thoughts are if we are happy and he grows up knowing he is loved and treasured, if he gets to school and meets friends with Mummies and Daddies, he wont feel any loss because his home and life are wonderful too, and there isn't much to miss.

I love how he is growing up, and at the same time dread when he's old enough to ask questions..

Thank you, bluebobbin....:)