Is Co Parenting with my Ex causing emotional problems in my 22 month old?

[Brela]

Hello,

I'm wondering if anyone has any thoughts on this?

I have tried Googling this but I can't seem to find anything that is relevant to what I'm asking.
I can only find articles on older children and the effects of divorce etc

My ex and I split up when my 22 month old was 7 months old.
He has her every weekend as I work Wednesday/Thursday & Friday so my "weekend " with my daughter is Monday & Tuesday.

I find that at the moment she seems to be really grumpy, says no about 10 times a minute, really indecisive, has meltdowns over everything and I just feel like she doesn't like me sometimes!

She has a strong bond with her dad and he is a good dad and asks to see him sometimes which makes me sad. She says "see daddy" randomly which breaks my heart.

Is what I'm describing normal behaviour for her age? I don't know if I'm being overly sensitive because of our situation and reading too much on to things?

I find that when she comes back on a Sunday she's always very tantrumy & just a little harder work than usual. It must be a strange transition to be with him for a few days then come back here.

I just find it a bit hard at the moment. It probably doesn't help that she has been sick for over a month on and off as she is catching every single thing going in nursery at the moment.
I also have a horrible cold so probably making me more emotional but I'm just worried for her. Bless her xxx

Poor you. All sounds really tough. As you suggest your lo is going to be feeling a bit at sea and she's going to need extra reassurance that no one is leaving her. Everything I've read and practiced with my own son tells me you wouldn't go wrong really talking through with her what you imagine she might be going through and really sympathising. Plus lots of extra cuddles and at least x1 really focused 20 min play session each day where you follow her lead and do nothing but play with her, and be sure to keep your boundaries and keep to your word - she's looking for safety in you and she'll find that when she sees you in control of things. When she's melting down just let her know you're there for her whatever and that you won't go. Listen to her, however hard it is to sit through a melt down. I'd recommend looking at Sarah ocwell Smith books and also Hand in hand parenting. Be confident she loves you and show her you understand how hard it is to be separated from her daddy. You've got this! xxx