Preparing a 2yr old for a 6wk separation from their dad

[Janie71]

Hi there - I have not done this myself, but thought I would suggest Skype? Not sure if it is something that your DH would be able to do, but if your DS was able to talk to him over video call once a day/week, maybe that would help the separation a little.

I wish you so much luck and send you, your DH and DS much love and prayers during this time.

Janie xxx

[Rivlas]

Have a photo on the fridge so his face is always there and he can say goodnight/morning to him. We used this and my SIL has also used this method when her DH was away for long stretches. Her DS was about the same age as yours.

Skype is another good way if it is allowed. This will also benefit you or family on the days you cannot visit.

You are an inspiration with will all you have to deal with Make sure you look after yourself in the coming weeks

[AliBaby]

Have you seen those Hallmark type books that are voice recorded? You can get them from newsagents. If you cant find one I will get one and send it you. It is really great as you can get DP to read the story while recording it and then it can be DS's special book when he misses daddy and he can press the buttons for each page to hear daddy read him the story.

I would also do things for Daddy when he misses him. Maybe a painting and then you can take it in to DP (as I am sure it would lift his spirits while away from DS as well).

Maybe some of the ladies who have Dp's/Dh's in the army might have some other suggestions as they may be away from their children for long periods of time.

[beansbeans!]

if its possible I would suggest skype too, or at least a daily phone call. We havent done that period of time but we have done some huge stints away from DH. Phone calls always help, we also talk about him alot when he is away, we make up stories about what he's doing etc.
Also we tend to plan most activities around Dh like draw pictures for him, do things that give the girls something to talk about on the phone (even though I still have to translate for him on the phone). The girls love it and it puts a smile on Dh's face when he's away.
Another thing we do is mark it on the calendar. DH normally does this with them before he goes. He shows them what day it is, and when he'll be back (well the day he hopes to be back anyhow) and marks the start and end dates with a sticker. Then everyday they get to put a sticker on the calendar or mark it off. (the girls get some control of how long he is away, they can see the time counting down and thety also get a bit of a counting session too )

Might be a bit too much, but it works for us when he's away.