Grandparents worried about 18 month old getting distressed while we're away

[sazinthefamilyway]

Can anyone offer advice on this for me. My parents are very keen to be involved with my 18 month old DD. They have babysat for her several times but a couple of times recently she has become distressed and been asking for us. She has still managed to go to sleep ok in the end (they have babysat overnight) but it has really upset them and made them lose confidence. They are due to look after her at their house next weekend for 2 nights while we go on a one-off trip away for my fil's surprise 60th birthday. They have said they want to do it although I know they are really worried about it... and now so am I! Any advice?

Lots of reassurance and cuddles but also be firm. Make sure they do something to distract dd in the day rather than just being round the house. Most of all, for them, don't take it personally - it's just a stage. DD was like this and not in terms of staying over, just panicking if I was in the room but she was on someone elses lap (she actually tended to be better if I wasn't in the room) and even refused to go to dh (which could have really upset him). dd will survive. Good luck x