Normal for 17 month old to be so distressed I’m not home

[VeryWorriedworriedworriedworried]

I’m on a night shift and my 17 month old DS is screaming for me. He’s woken up completely distressed/howling. He’s been like this for nearly 3 hours on/off.

This is the 6th time in a few weeks this has happened and I’m going to have to give up my job. This is okay isn’t ideal obviously but I can’t have him distressed like this.

However is this normal. To be this distressed? DP has cuddled him, distracted him, offered milk, food, calpol, lain in bed with him and rocked him. He’s even put tv on just now and although a good distraction, he’s in and out of tears.

I just don’t know if it’s normal to be this upset? He’s had DP look after him all night before when I’ve needed a break and been okay. Quite worried I’m missing something here.

How do you know? I'd expect DP to not tell you until you get home. Your worrying about it won't help. He needs to find his own way.

Do you think DP is laying on the guilt so you leave your job?

My first thought was also 'how do you know'. Why is he telling you that when you are at work?

You can't give up your job because the baby is crying!

I'd suggest that your partner strengthen his relationship with his son at other times. Spend more time together in small ways. Make sure he is the one putting his coat etc.

My 3 year old got upset if he saw I was going out for the evening and if he woke up when I was out wouldn’t let the babysitter or DH near him. He also wouldn’t take his coat off at my mother’s house in case I was going to leave him! It’s a phase and he will grow out of it. BTW, DS is an adult and seems pretty well adjusted now.