Clingy, whiney toddler

[MrsSG]

My DS is 2.5yrs and was a very easy happy little chap until about 2 months ago when he became super-whiney and clingy. It is getting so I feel we really can't playdate as it is so awful for everyone else. INitially not jealous of his brother (now 8 months) he is now much grabbier for attention, plus his father has a new contract away a lot - so: obvious causes methinks are sib getting to a more interesting and demanding age, plus father away more. But how on earth do I get past this? I just try to remain calm and jolly and try to ignore/divert as much as possible, but confess (with deep shame) I am not enjoying him much at the moment, which is a shame as he is so lovely, or can be, and even this morning gave his sib a hug (without prompting) and a toy to cheer him up mid-teething. And cannot escape the feeling I am doing a really really bad job at this, otherwise he's have more confidence and happiness in him. Sorry for venting - the whole thing is tearing me up actually (pathetic, I know!)

Well you aren't the only one. My DS, now 2.1 has always been completely happy with family but now if I go out of the room and close the door so he can't follow me, he gets upset.

Last week I went to stay with my sister, it was raining so put him inside with sis while I unloaded the car, and even though she held him so he could see me through the window, he was screaming and very upset by the time I came back in - maybe two minutes.

It's not you. I think they've just got to an age where they understand that the world is bigger than what they can see, and separation anxiety has hit. I'm hoping it will pass when they realise nothing bad is happening. Just stay patient, that's all I can suggest.

Ah thanks - and good vibes to you!