Toddler only wanting mum at bedtime

[pleasethanks]

My DD is days away from 2. For the past 3 weeks she will only accept me at bedtime. Since she has been born, DH or I have put her to bed, turn about pretty much, no objections.

However, for the past 3 weeks or so, she wants me and only me. If he tries to do it she gets really really upset and scream for me. Hysterical screaming. Sobbing. She is fine with him during the day.

I don't want to get into the habit of me only doing bed (and nap!) times and I really could do with a break! But the sobbing really breaks my (and DH's) heart. I have no problem being firm with her and not letting her get her own way, but this feels different somehow.

Has anyone else been through this? Does it just pass? Or should I just leave the house one night and leave them to it?

poor you DS is almost 7 months and though he doesn't cry out for me yet he has suddenly started fighting DP but falls right asleep with me. Like you we have done turn about since the start.

I've just been trying not to give in to him because i don't want to end up doing it all the time and it really hurts DP when i step in (he feels like he's failing). I've no real advice i'm afraid but your not alone in the sudden mummy loving it must be hard when she's crying out for you so maybe leaving the house wouldn't be a bad idea if she knows your gone she might be fine just keep your mobile on incase she's very upset.

DS does this, but he is a daddy's boy the rest of the time to the point where I was feeling rejected, so I was glad.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that they go through phases. Until 1 year he wanted me for everything, then switched to DH and now its DH in the day and me at night. I'm sure in a few months his preferences will change again.

My DS is like this too. He's 21 months.

From after bath until bed its only me that will do, although he's fine with DH any other time, pretty much.

It goes in phases - we're in one at the moment, the last one lasted 2 weeks or so, a few months ago.

We just take things in turns as much as we can - I'll be in the room when DH is giving DS his milk if he gets upset when I leave the room, for example, but I won't actually do the bottle unless he's really distressed.

I know what you mean OP about it seeming different to a normal 'I want my own way' thing. DS seems genuinely scared and upset. Because it has passed before I'm hoping that it will pass again..!

Incidentally on the one occasion when I've not been in the house at this time of day DS was fine.

Make of that what you will!

Good luck.