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22 month old regressing?

4 replies

ByDreamyMintNewt · 06/06/2026 13:21

Hi,

Posting as I'm concerned about my almost 22 month old who over the last week seems to be changing a lot. The main thing is that he has always been a very busy, active toddler but has suddenly started constantly sucking his lip in (not has a dummy since before 6 months old) and just wanting to lie on us and cuddle and play with our nails - zoning out.

He's been pretty on track for his developmental mile stones. He has lots of words (I've not been keeping count but at least 100) and, although isn't yet putting them together, uses them to communicate what he wants and is interested in. He points at things that interests him or he wants. He's never been very interested in toys but loves balls and being outside, often stands at the door just saying "garden" and getting his shoes. If I give him a baby doll he will give it a bottle but isn't really bothered.

However lately, he doesn't seem to want to do much and is talking less because he just wants to cuddle and suck his lip! What is going on? I feel like he's had a personality transplant. What can I do?

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Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
HumberSquid · 06/06/2026 18:16

My first thought is that he's ill.

ByDreamyMintNewt · 06/06/2026 19:10

HumberSquid · 06/06/2026 18:16

My first thought is that he's ill.

I actually got his ears checked by the pharmacist today just in case, but all fine apparently, just a bit waxy.

No symptoms of any illness apart from this change in behaviour.

OP posts:
BinNightTonight · 06/06/2026 21:34

Could it be something like a growth spurt? Has there been any changes in his environment/life? Change of childcare etc.

ByDreamyMintNewt · 06/06/2026 21:44

No big changes. He's been going to a childminder since 12 months old and has always gone happily.

It could be a leap or something? But how long do these things usually last. Just such a strange change from a busy boy to one who just wants to do nothing but suck his lip and cuddle!

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