Calling me Mom and Crying

[Anonymous]

(1 yo) is calling me mom and cries when she has to go to her mom. This is very hard when mom picks up and baby does not want to leave me. I am teaching baby my name and show her pics of her family and point out her mom, dad, grandparents, etc. I know MB's head knows that this is normal, but I also know that it hurts too. What else can I do- suggestions, please- to help ease the transition? I know she's only 1, and MB knows that I am trying my best but what else can I do? It hurts me to see the pain in MB's eyes. BTW, MB is a great mom and loves her baby so much. She does not work crazy hours so baby is not with me more than 6 hours in one day.

[Anonymous]

MB here. I would not consider this a bad thing at all. It's totally developmentally normal. Next week, your charge might be crying when mom leaves or call you both your first name. Don't stress about it.

[Anonymous]

Thanks- and both MB and I know that but I can see that it hurts her too.

[Anonymous]

Normal

[Anonymous]

You can't do anything about this.

[Anonymous]

I had one who did that. Same age too. She would burst into tears when mommy would come home from work. Moms feelings were hurt.

One day I had a talk with the baby. Of course, the baby didn't understand what I was saying. but, when mom walked in the house at the end of the day and baby burst into tears yet again, I told mommy that we had a talk about this. I told baby that I love her very much, but I am just here for the short term. Mommy will Me in your life forever. When baby loses her first tooth, It will be mommy letting the tooth fairy know about it, because I will probably be long gone. Mommy will be the one teaching you to ride a bike. Mommy will be attending your parent teacher conferences. Mommy will take you shopping for your first bra. Mommy will help you with your homework. Mommy will teach you to drive. Mommy will attend your high school and college graduations. Mommy will be at your wedding. Mommy is in it for the duration. Nanny is a short term relationship.

MB felt much better after I told her about the talk that baby and I had.

The phase lasted about three months.

[Anonymous]

In my opinion, it just means that you are doing an excellent job and that you are truly worth your weight in gold.

[Anonymous]

PP :29 that is really sweet! I know your MB totally appreciated that, and I am def steeling it when I need to give my MB a boost. As for pp, it is normal but still makes this super awkward. I am sure that it will pass soon!

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone! It's something our head knows but it's hard on the heart. I want mom to be comfortable. I love the talk 0:29! - OP

[Anonymous]

Normal. Kids at that age a) get attached to whoever is with them a lot and b) over generalize names for people and objects. The baby doesn't think you're their mom, the kid just loves you and is comfortable with you. You're doing everything right and this too shall pass, but as a mom it IS hard. I would just keep teaching and gently correcting.