My guess is the 4yr old has learnt it gets a reaction from mum. I think its more likely she is seeking mums attention by doing this than because she is hugely upset when youre not there. She is old enough to understand you come back etc.
She could also be saying it in tantrums or when she doesn't like something her mum has said.
I had a 2yr old charge who would scream when I left the house. I lived in so if she saw me leave at the wkend she would follow me screaming. If she woke in the night and her dad went to her she would say 'I don't want you, I was 'nanny' (obv she used my name) She outgrew it as she learnt a. I came back and b. her parents were there for her at night etc and she didn't need me to 'rescue' her

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm the OP and this is actually very true.

Then will you be following any of the advice given here?

I already do almost everything that was suggested. I don't play into her tantrums, I make my exit quick and just pull the bandaid off. I know how that that's the best way to deal with leaving.

I will however speak to MB about it and try out the picture idea. Thanks for the advice.