15 mo whingeing at most available opportunities - normal?

[ParsleyTheLion1]

My 15 mo DS takes almost any given opportunity to whinge, whine or yell - wiping his mouth/nose/face, being carried somewhere, having belt on car seat done up/undone, being put in pen for a few minutes, not being given immediately what it is he has seen and wants, being undressed/dressed, being put in buggy, having nappy changed, not being allowed to sink fingers into his shepherds pie, being put in sleeping bag at night, etc. This is my first DC and I haven't had much experience of young children before. He used to be such a chilled out baby. Is this normal?

[Ferguson]

He would like to be a bit more independent and make decisions for himself, but he realises he isn't quite ready for it yet. Wherever you can AVOID the conflict, and tell him in advance what is going to happen. If he can be allowed to do things HE wants, that aren't dangerous, then le him do them. Particularly - why CAN'T he sink his fingers in his shepherds pie? You might not choose to do it, but this is how children learn.

[TeaBelle]

I agree with the pp. Say Yes wherever possible. When not possible give a short explanation as this will assist in his emotional literacy as he grows up

[flingingmelon]

Much sympathy OP. DS is a whiner too. Since about 2.5 I've sometimes been able to discourage it but obvs at 15m their reasoning skills aren't that great.

I do find he's less whiny when's he isn't tired / bored / hungry but I think it's pretty common

[TooMinty]

Sounds standard to me - DS2 is 17 months. DS1 is 3.5 and is still fairly whiny but at least he understands when I tell him he won't get anything until he uses his nice voice!