Maybe some of you have noticed that the first thing I do when I enter a room is access every possible danger and escape route, or that when you are trying to have a conversation with me my eyes are never focused on you. It's not that I'm not interested in having conversations with other adults, nor do I deadbolt every door out of fear of someone entering from the outside. It's just that the second I take my eyes off Antalya she disappears. It's more than just a tendency to wander - it is deliberately running away when I am not looking. Yes, she will watch until I turn my head or I am distracted to make her disappearance.
I didn't know there was a word her behavior until today when I read Debbie's great post on Understanding and Preventing Elopement. Although I am relieved to know I am not the only mother out there that struggles with this issue, it is also unnerving to know Antalya's behavior isn't just part of the terrible twos. Deep down I knew this was going to be an issue we would struggle with for a long time, but I must admit that part of me has been hoping this would be a short lived phase. Let's hope the deadbolts in London are too tall for her to reach!
5 comments:
eek! This is one of my biggest fears: child runs off, never to be found again. I suppose every mother shares this fear. So I feel for you and also hope that those deadbolts in London are high!
ps
I was just thinking this weekend that long ago that's probably why thy stories (fairytales) were so scary. They had to scare the kids to keep them close! :)
Leah has the same problem. Ryan and I don't even like to go to group gathering cause she's so bad. I hoping it's a stage and not something we will be dealing w/FOREVER! LOL.
The stories I have heard have been down right terrifying. I don't think Peanut really is a true eloper because she has too much fun having you chase her and makes sure you see her before she takes off. I hope she doesn't decide it's more fun to do it in secret.
Yikes!! I too feel for you, the terrible twos are bad enough!
You're an awesome mom! I admire you so much! I will miss you guys!!
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