Crying mum.

[lmi]

My son is 18 months. His father and I recently separated and contact with dad is very limited at the moment given the circumstances. Other than dad, W spends time with others with only me present. He has never stayed with anyone else apart from his siblings while I grab the laundry and such. This is due to there not being anyone to have him. The last month he has been very clingy, calling after me when I leave the room to make dinner (which is open planned) or to use the toilet. He protests being without me constantly and I am at a loss at what to do, I can go about my day fairly easily with him by my side, yet I worry the attachment isn't healthy for the future. Any suggestions would be much appreciated! Baring in mind I have no one other than dad (which could take some time) to leave him with.

Many thanks!

I think they go through a clingy stage :-)

You might be able to get 15 hours a week of funded childcare when he's 2.

This clingy phase is entirely normal for 18 months. He'll grow out of it. One tip is to give him warning when you're going out of the room. For example, "DS I'm just going to the toilet. You can play here and I'll be right back."

Thanks both. I do previously tell W that mummy is leaving the room and I shan't be long. Fingers crossed it is simply a phase.

It is perfectly normal for him to be clingy. You don't need to do anything about it apart from be a reassuring presence. If you try to fight it by sending him to other people you will probably make him feel more clingy and less secure.

Children are most able to explore the world confidently from a really secure base, i.e. their attachments with care-givers. Let him make progress in his own time. He will.

Thank you Goldmanda, your reply is very reassuring. I am quite adimante in not forcing W to be separated from me, yet I then doubt myself, is that me being 'over protective?' Or having W's best interest at heart? What you say makes sense. A secure child is much more likely to explore and find contentment in their surroundings than one that is forced. I appreciate the time you took to reply. As I do you all.

Many thanks x