Re: Absent Parents
This age is very important, as this is the prime age when child’s personality is developed and any thing lacking does have some negative impact. My kids are missing their best friend. 
As far as moms case is concerned my wife only misses me when she has to handle the youngest daughter,4 mnth, elder two are best handled when i am not around. 
i do not suggest any one to go by that route unless unevitable.