My 4 year old daughter breaks down & cries for her dad several times during the day.?

Question

How can I keep her busy and her mind off of him enough to keep her from clinging to me; be able to get things done during the day. So she can get through the day? I have tried calling him & letting her talk to him, turning the tv on and letting her watch a tv show or movie of her choice, taking her outside etc.

I am thinking that...She may be acting out cause of going to preschool and my oldest will be going to Kindergarden in the fall? (Yes, they are close in age and they will be separated.) How can I make this easier for them both and me (Mom) ?

He works about 45 mins. from our house and he is involved w/ my kids.

Answer 1

I know this might not sound sweet or nice but sometimes you have to bribe kids.  Ex - "if yous top crying for Daddy I'll give you a cookie"  I know that you can't do that ALL the time or they will be spoiled.

But once in a while try doing that.  She could also need more time with her Dad.  Try to get them to bond with eachother.  Like taking your daughter to the park or doing something fun that your daughter can do.

I remember when my younger sister was in preschool and she would cry for my Mom and cling to her.  But once she got into school a little more and made some new friends she got better and wanted to go more.

Answer 2

This one they are going to have to work out for themselves.  The world is filled with disappointment and you might as well learn now that you cannot shield your children from it..  To try, is to keep them from growing and will result in your tearing yourself apart.  "As the tree is bent, so shall it grow."  You have explained what the situation is.  You daughter needs to learn to have patience.

Answer 3

I strongly disagree with the second answerer. You NEVER bribe kids with food. Food is not a reward, it is a need. That will cause her problems all her life if she resorts to food to calm herself down.

I would give her something of your husbands to keep with her. Young children have a very strong sense of smell and are able to pick up on their parents' scent.

As frustrating as it is, try to continue to be patient with her. Just remember, she has only been on this earth for four years. She doesn't have very many close relationships with people that she can count on 24/7, like the relationship that she has with you or her father.

Good luck!