How to help pre-schooler deal with abandonment by mom
I am acquainted with a young family with a three-year-old daughter. The mom surprised everyone by announcing she is unhappy in her marriage, has found another man through an online relationship, and is leaving in two days. She is not only leaving a husband, but a child as well. She took her daughter to the park and told her that she was leaving and didn't know if and when she would see her again. The family is devastated and are looking for ways to help this little girl understand what is happening to her. How do they deal with the inevitable questions? This whole situation is unthinkable and it is hard to understand how a mother could leave her own child in this way, and seem so cold about it all. Any advice would be appreciated so I can try to help this family. Sincerely, C.D.