Will 3 Months in Another Country Harm a 3 Year-Old?

Reader’s Question

How long can a three year old be separated from her parents without causing problems? Two weeks? Two months? Our daughter-in-law wants to send our granddaughter to stay with her parents in Brazil for up to three months to get to know her side of the family while she and our son get settled in their new home. I don’t think this is a good idea and am concerned about how this will be processed by a three year old. They plan to use instant messaging with a computer camera to communicate during the separation.

– Worried Nana

Our Consulting Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

The way the situation is planned will either create problems or make it a very positive and productive visit. As you suspect, children can’t be “dumped” into the custody of adults without some preparation. I would hope that your son and daughter-in-law would emotionally prepare your granddaughter for this adventure by beginning to use the computer-video calls now. Three year old children are pretty flexible, and while she’ll have episodes of missing her parents and Nana, those can be calmed by frequent contact.

I would also suggest that you purchase a webcam and join in the communications network. You and your granddaughter will miss each other during this time. The webcam system is an excellent way to keep in touch. I use the same system with three of my grandchildren in different cities. Keep in mind that children aren’t the only ones to experience separation anxiety.

Rate this post?

(1 votes, average: 5 out of 5)

 Loading ...