Leaving 1 1/2 year old for 5 week for work training?

Question

I have the opportunity to change jobs. New job would be way less stressful, more money, and better benefits. However, it would require me to attend a 5 week training on the other side of the country (I live in the Midwest, training is on the east coast). My son would probably be around 18 months at the time. My husband is a great dad, but he’s never been alone with him for more than a couple of hours and I’ve never been away from my son overnight. I’m really struggling with the decision because of this training. It’s only a one time thing but just thinking about it makes me tear up. What would you do?
Posting anonymously on the off chance someone I know is on this app as well. Thanks in advance for reading.

Answer

Id start training dad now. Start leaving for longer periods of time or staying in your room and eventually work up to dad doing everything. If this job is something you really want then I think you should go for it. You'll miss your family terribly but it sounds like it will be worth it. Start teaching dad and baby to be alone together now so that when the time comes everyone is more prepared. Good luck and congrats on the new job!

Answer

Is there a way your husband can come with you for at least a week or two in between? I'd have a really hard time being away from my family for so long!

Answer

I definitely think his father should have the chance to be alone with him. 18 months is pretty independent. It's not a ton of time. Make sure you do as much advanced prep as you can. Like making sure they have groceries, your son's daily schedule, etc. That time away will definitely be hard but try to keep it in perspective because in the long run it will benefit you and your family. And give them some great bonding time. Congrats on the new job!

Answer

So, with this stuff I have to be non emotional. The facts are this new job would benefit the child in the long term. As parents, we have to do things for our children they don't like all the time to do what's best for them. Leaving your son sounds like it may be more painful for you than him. Don't get me wrong, your son will miss you, but at 18 months, you and I both know he won't remember it. Get a phone that video chats, and hook up a nanny cam to feel close. Go for the new job. You will miss a month a week, but gain so much more.

Leaving 1 1/2 year old for 5 week for work training?

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