It is important to remember that a child at different stages of development perceives the situation differently. What you can say to a three-year-old will be difficult for a ten-year-old to understand. Age determines how complex our response should be.

- Children under 4 years old usually do not have a deep understanding of what a family is and why it can sometimes be incomplete. They can ask questions, but do not expect a clear answer. At this age, it is important to simply say that dad cannot be there, but he still loves the child.
- Children from 4 to 7 years old may feel the absence of dad more acutely, so you need to react calmly, trying to avoid accusations or negative emotions towards the father. Saying that the father lives elsewhere or is very busy, but continues to love the child is a suitable option.
- Children from 7 to 10 years old can already begin to ask specific questions about why the father does not live at home, and what happened. It is important to answer honestly, but simply, without going into complex details. At this age, you can explain that sometimes people break up, and it is not the fault of either the child or the mother.
- Children over 10 years old are able to understand a more complex situation. They may know more about the relationship between their parents and may be ready to hear the truth about the reasons for the father's absence. Openness and sincerity are important when communicating with teenagers.

Explaining to your child why dad is not around is a difficult conversation, but it is necessary. By remaining calm and positive, you help your child understand and accept the situation. Your openness and support are the best ways to make your child feel confident and safe, even in difficult moments.