How do you move on from being separated from a child and family you love?

Question

There's a little girl I've babysat for half the weekend every weekend for a year and suddenly a few weeks ago they told me they weren't going to be needing me anymore because the girl's grandma is going to be staying with them now. I asked if I could still visit her sometimes and the mom basically said no, that it was time to have some separation between their personal life and their daughter's daycare (I work at her daycare).

I miss her very, very much. I've practically been her third parent since she was a baby (she's two now) and we're very attached to each other. I think the mom may have felt threatened by how close we are, which I understand and respect, but how do I move on now that she's not in my life so much? I know she misses me too, because she asks for me all the time at work and clings to me and cries when she sees me.

I understand their need for separation, but how do I deal with this loss? She's very special to me and I really miss her. They were like my second family.

Answer 1

I suggest that you request to be assigned to her for a specific amount of time during the work day.

Something can be worked out, even if you can only spend your lunchtime with her.

Your supervisors should understand.

As for the other members of the family, it sounds like they would prefer not to see you during off hours.  You should respect that.