Dear Parents Africa,
Whenever I get home, my son only wants our nanny. She feeds him, rocks him to sleep, and he refuses to eat or rest unless she’s around. I even installed CCTV, and honestly, the bond they share is beautiful but it makes me feel like a stranger in my own child’s life. Should I be worried or grateful?
A concerned mom
Dear Mom,
First, take a deep breath, what you’re feeling is more common than you think. Many parents struggle when their little ones become deeply attached to the nanny. But your child’s behavior actually says a lot about the kind of care he’s receiving.
If your child is happy, playful, and comfortable around the nanny, it means she makes him feel safe and loved. That’s something to celebrate. It shows your nanny has created an environment of trust and stability, both crucial for a child’s growth.
However, it’s also a gentle reminder for you to reconnect. Try creating small, consistent moments just for the two of you; bedtime cuddles, storytime, weekend walks. These routines help rebuild your emotional bond in simple but powerful ways.
And remember, having a nanny your child adores doesn’t make you less of a mother, it means you chose someone who loves your child well in your absence. You’re still the mom, and that connection can never be replaced.
With love,
Parents Africa
