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Former Christian Democrats chairwoman defends decision to take spa holiday without toddler daughter, sparking debate on parental engagement and childcare

Tuesday 16th 2024 on 18:01 in  
Denmark

Isabella Arendt, the former chairwoman of the Christian Democrats and a current candidate for the Conservative party, has defended her decision to take a three-day spa holiday with her husband, leaving her 18-month-old daughter, Leonora, in the care of her grandparents. She believes that it is a good idea for parents to take some time as a couple to maintain a strong relationship, which in turn provides a solid foundation for their child.

However, family counselor Lola Jensen, with 40 years of experience in the field, disagrees. She warns of the potential strain on the relationship that could result from the child’s need for repair after such a separation. Jensen suggests that the current societal trend of overworked nursery-age children stems from a lack of opportunities for rest, contemplation, presence, and parental engagement.

Jensen strongly advocates for unconditional love as the best gift that parents can offer their children, followed by a sense of belonging within a community that needs them and doesn’t disconnect them. Acknowledging that Arendt knows her daughter best, Jensen advises parents to consider family-friendly holidays such as renting a summer cottage, where they can still enjoy romantic moments while including their child in shared activities.

Despite Jensen’s arguments, Arendt remains firm in her decision, believing that the best thing she and her husband can provide for Leonora is a strong parental relationship. To maintain this, Arendt argues, requires spending time together without their toddler, who can make maintaining a romantic and sexual relationship challenging.