Help! My Six-Year-Old Wants to Leave Me for His Dad

Hey everyone,

I really need some advice and support right now. My six-year-old son, Jacob, just dropped a bombshell on me. He looked me straight in the eyes, put on his shoes, and said, “Mamo, już cię nie kocham, chcę Cię zostawić. Chcę do taty.” For those who don’t speak Polish, it means, “Mom, I don’t love you anymore, I want to leave you. I want to go to Dad.”

I’m absolutely heartbroken and don’t know what to do. Jacob’s dad, Joshua, and I separated about a year ago, and it’s been tough on all of us. But hearing those words from my little boy just shattered me. I know kids say things they don’t always mean, but this felt so real and final.

Has anyone else been through something like this? How did you handle it? Should I talk to Jacob about his feelings or give him some space? I’m worried that if I push too hard, he’ll feel even more distant from me. On the other hand, I don’t want to ignore his feelings and make him think I don’t care.

I’ve tried to be there for him as much as possible, but maybe I’m missing something. Should I involve a child psychologist? Or maybe have a heart-to-heart with Joshua to see if we can come up with a plan together?

Any advice or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated. I’m feeling pretty lost right now and could use some guidance from anyone who’s been in a similar situation.

Thanks in advance,

Gianna