There could be several reasons why a child might not ask for their mother when they've been away from her for days:
Age and Developmental Stage: Younger children, especially toddlers and infants, may not have developed the language or cognitive abilities to express their emotions or the concept of missing someone verbally. They may not have the words to articulate their feelings and may instead show their emotions through actions or behaviors.
Bonding and Attachment Style: The child's attachment style and the quality of the bond they share with their mother can play a role. A securely attached child may feel confident that their mother will return and may not feel the need to constantly ask for her. On the other hand, a child with an insecure attachment might be more anxious about separation and might vocalize their distress more frequently.
Comfort with Caregivers: If the child is in a familiar and secure environment with other caregivers or family members they trust, they may feel content and secure even in their mother's absence. The presence of these trusted individuals can provide emotional support and reduce the need to ask for the mother.
Distracted or Engaged: Children can get engrossed in activities, play, or new experiences, which may temporarily take their focus away from missing their mother. Engaging and exciting experiences can divert their attention.
Personality and Temperament: Every child is unique and has their own temperament. Some children may be more independent and self-reliant, while others might be more sensitive and expressive about their emotions.
Previous Experiences: Past experiences of separations from the mother and how they were handled could influence a child's reaction to subsequent separations. If they have successfully coped with separations before, they may be better at managing their emotions during subsequent separations.
Cultural Factors: Cultural norms and practices can also influence how children express emotions and handle separations. In some cultures, children may be encouraged to be more independent and not express vulnerability openly.
It's essential to remember that every child is different, and their response to separation from their mother can vary widely. Some children may be vocal about their longing for their mother, while others may not verbalize it but could still experience a range of emotions internally. Parents and caregivers should be attentive to a child's non-verbal cues, emotional well-being, and behavior to ensure they are coping well with any separation. If there are concerns about a child's emotional response to separation, it is advisable to seek guidance from pediatricians or child psychologists.