Seat With A View

I am writing this from 36,000 ft in the air! I am flying on Delta and they have WiFi internet! How fun it that! I have been skyping my four year old (who is vacationing with her friend Ethan in Florida! ). I think it is great for parents to travel away from their children every once in awhile. It is always hard for me, but I think it is the best thing for both of us (first knowing that she is safe though!)

I believe that the few trips has helped my daughter to understand that I will come back after I leave! It is amazing how many children are still struggling with that at the age of four. There is a fine line of not enough independence and too much independence. It is good for a child to start understanding they can be safe and the parent will come back. Getting a baby sitter, having them in play dates, pre-school and other activities are great for helping your child begin to develop their independence muscle.

If your child experiences separation anxiety, it is important to work towards a confident child that knows they are safe and will be reunited with their caregivers/parents. For the child with acute separation anxiety, I suggest the use of tapping (also known as EFT or Meridian Tapping). This is a gentle, yet very successful way of helping the energy dissipate around emotionally charged challenges. I highly recommend using Tappy Bear for child (and many adults enjoy Tappy as well. Both my daughter and I have one).  There is also a wealth of information on how you can use EFT with or without a Tappy Bear.  If you find the information useful, be sure to check out the series “Parenting Can Be Easier“.  This is a series of six interviews with EFT Masters and practitioners.  You will find practical, hands on examples of how you can use EFT for illnesses, special needs, sibling rivalry, how to discuss difficult news and how to process grief with your child.

As much as I am missing my little girl, I know that this time away…. this mommy time is important for me.  Remember to make time not only for yourself (many mothers find the “lose themselves” when they have children), but to make time for your partner.  I like to make dates with my husband…. I did not do it for the first two years and I wish I had.  It is important to make your partner feel as special as that baby.  My relationship has deepened since our date nights began!  It was fun finding that relationship in the midst of parenthood!

Here’s to being a Passion Parent!

Christine Hiebel