I'm a bit concerned about ds (3.5). He is generally happy and energetic - a normal, lively little boy - but has never been particularly affectionate. I'm probably not too loveable at the moment - I'm a bit distracted and melancholic since mine and dp's separation - although ds seems to be handling it remarkably well. However, I like cuddles and it bothers me that they're not welcome most of the time. Ds says, dramatically, that they hurt (even if I'm very gentle) or tickle, etc.
However, if I have to go out somewhere, or when I drop him at pre-school, he can't get enough cuddles. He wants "one more kiss and cuddle", and another, and another. And he's always pleased to see me on reuniting. And sometimes, at bedtime when I lay down with him, he reaches across and strokes my face. But rarely, in the course of a day, is a cuddle/kiss initiated by me actually welcome. He doesn't like them! And I feel about this.
I can't decide if ds's behaviour around cuddles means he's really secure, or not very secure at all - and if I should be that bothered. I dunno. But I do feel a bit rejected.
Any thoughts? Ta.