Remember, even a few months is a long period of time as a child grows and develops. Take your time. Relationships have changed; family members have grown emotionally and, for children, physically, too.

Talk with your child beforehand about what to expect.

• Point out that just as he’s changed over the last few months, so has his returning parent: Your child may have grown an inch, tried a new food, learned to say his ABCs. The parent who’s coming back may have been to a new place, been in difficult situations, and also learned new things.

Readjust routines slowly.

• Take it slow; be patient. If your child is shy at the initial reunion, you can set the example. Let him see Mom and Dad hug. Let him set a comfortable timetable for reconnecting.
• Routines will need to be readjusted. Introduce changes slowly. Little by little, you’ll have to learn how to be a team again.

Remind your child that he is loved.

• Comfort your child – softly, loudly, daily. Hugs help, too!

Download materials »