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The transition to early childhood
The first invitation to spend a night with a boyfriend or girlfriend is a real rite of passage in early childhood. When your child leaves for a weekend or a vacation with the family (with his grandparents, an aunt, a godmother, etc.) he finds himself in an environment where, symbolically, the mother is still present. By the indications that it gives, the rules that it transmits, it extends the family cocoon. With a friend, your child is confronted with new habits to which he must comply. What if he needs a light to fall asleep or refuses to eat green beans? This evening at his boyfriend’s house may help him to get rid of his little quirks.
Teaching your child about difference and diversity
Behind his excitement probably hides a little worry. The novelty, the difference… it’s enriching, but it’s also a little scary. Prepare him to face it by teaching him diversity (there is no one model but several methods) and tolerance (everyone does things as they see fit and must be accepted). If you know that the parents who invite her have different educational or religious habits from yours, let her know. Warned, he will be less surprised and uncomfortable in front of his guests. If he is going to spend the night with a less well-off family, or on the contrary richer, he will certainly have questions for you on this subject. The opportunity to open his eyes to all these differences, between individuals and backgrounds. An awareness that will encourage him to grow.
Your daughter’s critical outlook on her lifestyle
« At Clara’s, we are allowed to drink soda at the table and we don’t have to put on our slippers. And then every Saturday morning she goes to her dance class “. When you return from this little getaway, there is a good chance that your child will start to take a critical look at his lifestyle and even your education. It’s up to you to remember the rules and the reasons why you impose them. ” With us, we do not drink soda while eating because it is too sweet and it suppresses the appetite. Since the ground is slippery and I don’t want you to hurt yourself, I prefer that you keep your slippers on. But maybe the idea of doing an activity isn’t that bad? It is also up to you to take his remarks into account and perhaps question yourself.
Our tips for your daughter’s first weekend at a girlfriend’s house
Make this first experience a real initiation to autonomy. First, let your child choose which items they want to take with them. If he doesn’t think about it, ask him if he wants to bring his blanket, his night light … A few familiar toys will allow him to be proactive and to feel more at ease with his host. After dropping him off, don’t go on forever, the separation would be more difficult and he might feel embarrassed by your presence. Alone, it will take its marks more quickly. To reassure him, remind him that he is free to call you if he wishes, but you do not need to call him. However, you can call the parents the next day to get news and confirm, for example, the time at which you will come back to pick it up.