Saying Goodbye To Your Helper?

When you introduce a helper into your family, it is prevalent for family members to become attached. Especially children!

As children spend a lot more time with helpers in working families, they create a strong bond with them. They become accustomed to their company, love and help.

Now, either your helper needs to go home — or you don’t need a helper anymore.

How do you tell your child?

Here is some advice you can do to help your child cope with the situation:

1. Be honest.

Honesty is the best way forward. Tell your child or children that your helper is leaving and don’t make up any false excuses.

Don’t make this too last minute — ensure you give your child enough time so that it doesn’t come as too much of a shock.

Sometimes, children tend to think they’ve done something wrong, and they could be blaming themselves. They must know that it is not their fault.

2. Explain plans.

If you’re not planning to employ another helper, then you should tell your child how you’ll move forward as a family. Especially if your helper has been with you for quite some time.

You can explain arrangements such as the child will be accompanied by the grandparents, other family or friends.

Assure that he or she is still loved and cared for and that the family members will always be present. If you plan to get another helper, ensure your child that the next one will be as loving and caring as the old one.

4. Break the news with your helper.

To soften the blow, ask your helper to tell your child together with you. This allows your child to be able to ask any questions they have to either you or your helper. This will lessen the anxiety of the child.

5. Host a goodbye party.

As a way of saying thank you, you can throw a leaving party for your helper. This could be at home, out for dinner, at the beach etc.

Involve your child in the planning so they can think of other ways to show their gratitude. Encourage your child to make a card, or give a small gift that means something to them.

If you encourage your child to give a card or a small gift, you can explain to them that the helper will keep it safe with them forever.

It’s reasonable for your child to be upset about this. They may even show sadness for a few days or weeks. This is normal because they’ve been used to this person. The fact they are leaving can be challenging for a child to process.

During this time, be present for your child and remind them how much they are loved.

Children get easily attached. But it doesn’t mean they’ll not get over it. You will always need to remain patient with your children in these circumstances. Remind them that this experience can teach them to be more independent as they grow older.

Even if the helper is no longer there, there are still people who would take care of your child. Make it known that you, as the parents, are the most important people in their lives. And you will never leave them.