I FEEL GUILTY OVER LEAVING MY DAUGHTER

Dear Coleen

I’ve been offered my dream job in the US and I want to take it.

My problem is that I have a 15-year-old daughter here in the UK, who I see every weekend.

Her mum and me divorced about eight years ago, but I’ve always been there for my daughter – she just has to pick up the phone.

I worry about how she’ll take this move and also about losing our connection, which is very special.

Have you any advice?

Coleen says

You sound like you have a deep and wonderful relationship with her, so I think it’d take a lot more than a move to the US to upset that. Yes, 15 can be a tricky age, but it’s also the age when kids want to be more independent and adventurous.

She might really love the fact that you’re moving to America because she’ll get to stay with you for long holidays.

I think reassurance is key – tell her you’ll talk, text and FaceTime every week, and do one of those things once a day.

Just a text saying “I love you” will let her know you’re thinking about her. And schedule in trips home or trips out there for her, so it’s in the diary and is something to look forward to.

I think if you’re positive and reassuring, she’ll get on board and it won’t be such a scary prospect.