Emma loves spending time with Mom, but what happens when it's time for Mom to leave for work? This episode explores separation, routines, and how toddlers process goodbyes—with plenty of adorable moments along the way.
🎙️ Opening (0:00–1:30)
"Have you ever wondered what goes through a three-year-old's mind when Mom grabs her keys and says, 'See you later'? Today we're asking one important question... What would Emma do?"
Describe Emma's morning routine.
Emma starts asking questions:
"Where are you going?"
"Can I come?"
"Will you be back after snack?"
Explain how toddlers see time.
At three years old, Emma doesn't understand:
Instead, she understands:
For Emma:
Mom isn't leaving forever.
She's just leaving... and Emma isn't sure exactly when she'll come back.
Emma hugs Mom.
Maybe she cries.
Maybe she says:
"Don't go."
Mom explains:
"I'll come back after work."
Emma doesn't fully understand "work."
She understands one thing:
Mom is leaving.
Discuss how crying at separation is completely normal.
Now Emma stays with Grandma.
At first:
Then...
Grandma suggests making cookies.
Or going outside.
Or building a pillow fort.
Little by little...
Emma forgets she was crying.
Talk directly to parents.
Many parents think:
"She cried... maybe I shouldn't have left."
Reality:
Most toddlers calm down within minutes once they're engaged.
Crying at goodbye doesn't necessarily mean they have a bad day.
In fact...
Emma laughs.
She paints.
She plays.
She eats lunch.
She has fun.
Emma's biggest questions aren't:
They're:
Once those questions are answered...
Everything becomes easier.
Keep goodbyes:
Instead of:
"I'll miss you sooo much!"
Try:
"Have fun with Grandma! I'll see you after your afternoon snack."
Children love routines.
Imagine Emma saying:
"Mom says she's going to work... but I think she's secretly going to buy coffee."
or
"If Mom can leave for work... Grandma can definitely let me have one more cookie."
"Thanks for joining us on another episode of What Would Emma Do? Next week, Emma tackles one of life's greatest adventures... the grocery store. Will she help with the shopping—or accidentally fill the cart with cookies? We'll find out together!"