My son is so attached what do I do

[cutienel]

I am a single mom with little help and work two part time jobs. I sleep and wake up with my son. He is 3 1/2 years old and goes to a head start program. He is a great kid no major problems or bad behavior issues. The teacher was telling me the other day that there is a point during the day (some days not everyday) where he just wants to lie down in the middle of a lesson or activity and suck his thumb and at times cries because he misses me. The teacher says its fine because he is so attached to me but if I can find or we can find another way to help him get through that emotional time in maybe a different way. Maybe help get him off from sucking his thumb too.
So my question is has anyone gone through such a problem or have any suggestions on what I can do?

Thank you in advance.
Janelle

[Saphira]

I would try introducing new people into his day. Like your parents. Do you get to see his father at all? It might be a good idea to involve him in some of the parenting. Always be around, from the sounds of it. He is very emotionally attached to you, as his sole caretaker/provider. But the only thing I can think to offer is letting him branch out. Spend time with your parents, his father, and some one on one time too. Maybe ask your parents [on their days off] if they'd like to watch him while you work, etc.

Other than that... I don't think I'm much help. I do hope another more experienced mommy gets to you and gives you great advice! They're good at that here. Good luck!

[craftyashley]

Perhaps give him a stuffed animal he can hug when he misses you?

[cutienel]

Thank you for the Advice, We don't have contact with his dad so that won't work even tho I wish we did. My family are not ones to really do me a favor like that and when I work he normally stays with my mom which at times he gives her a hard time. Other wise he is always with me.

[eniese]

I just wrote a nice long response and my computer ate it, so here's the gist of it:

Maybe try giving him a small picture of the two of you that he can look at when he's feeling sad.

Let him know that you miss him too when you aren't together.

If allowed, call the school around lunchtime (or another good time) and talk briefly.

[cutienel]

Yeah they did a pic collage at the beginning of the year, i know they use it I am not sure how often. What I have done is made an appt with the doc office bc the teacher thinks he may need OT, so we will see.