Sadly there comes a time in every single mamas moments that your little munchkin will arouse the question, “Where is my daddy?” or if your child is anything like my son he or she might say, “I don’t have a daddy!” Words that physically rip ones heart out and crushes like no other. If you’re like me a statement like this could take you by surprise. At the time my only response was, “…but you have a mommy who loves you very much!” Since then I have done a little bit of reading in hopes to be better prepared the next time I am confronted with such a statement.
In my research and discoveries I have come to the below conclusions. For any child that may present this predicament you need to remain strong and be prepared to respond with an age appropriate answer. Most importantly you want your child (or children) to know that they are loved. You want to provide them with a sense of security and reassurance. I firmly believe that the truth is the best answer, but remember that they are not always asking nor do they need to here the entire story. Again age appropriate! Inform your child how lucky they are to have various male role models in their life. In sum the three most important things to walk away with are to provide an open heart, a sense of security, and an honest story.
Looking for resources on the subject matter you may be interested in:
Raising Boys Without Men by Dr. Peggy Drexler http://www.peggydrexler.com/raisingboys.html
When Dad Hurts Mom by Lundy Bancroft http://www.amazon.com/When-Dad-Hurts-Mom-Witnessing/dp/0425200310
Please keep in mind there are also books available to read to your children:
Do I Have A Daddy? by Jeanne Warren Lindsay http://www.amazon.com/Do-Have-Daddy-Story-Single-Parent/dp/1885356625
Raising You Alone by Warren Hanson http://www.amazon.com/Raising-You-Alone-Warren-Hanson/dp/0972650466/ref=pd_sim_b_1
Love Is A Family by Roma Downey http://www.amazon.com/Love-Is-Family-Roma-Downey/dp/0439444233/ref=pd_sim_b_5
For a mama who is currently dealing with such questions I would love to hear thoughts and suggestions on the subject matter from my readers, and any further resources that may be helpful. Thank you for your love and support! Sincerely, Prego
Prego and the Loon 