3 Year old too clingy to Mum

[SaNiti]

My DD is 3 year old. She has always been very close to me (mum), which I thought was okay given she has been a covid baby, and that she spent so much time with me.
Its almost an year she has been going to the nursery where she has adjusted very well and quite quickly. Only that when she is at home, she does not leave me alone for even a minute. She does not play or be with anyone else (grandparents or even her dad) and wants me all the time. She shows very less interest in her room or her toys/books when she is at home. (although I am told that in nursery she is quite good at toys, independent play, reading books with other friends or by herself). I am okay usually with this, but at times it becomes very difficult. Like when I am working, she will want to be in my study, sit on my lap, try to talk to me during a meeting. I give her my full attention whenever I can. I have tried to talk to her too about it. But this behavior persists. Even when we all go out, she will not walk with anyone else but me. I am quite concerned - and not even sure if its right for me to be concerned or this will pass? What more can I do for her to feel happy with her dad/grandparents and even some times play on her own at home?

My DD is exactly the same. I would like to say they grow out of it but I still have to wait for my daughter to fall asleep before leaving her on her own. She’s now eight lol I wouldn’t do anything as she gets older she will form better bonds with grand parents and Dad. My daughter does go to dad a bit more now! Think it’s a natural thing. My mum told me apparently I was the same and wouldn’t let her go the toilet by herself.

Thanks Scousefab! Its helpful to know that I am not alone in this. I mostly love all the hugs, attention and I love yous that I get from her. Its just at times I really want her to play with other people at home and be happy doing that. I guess, as you say, this will get better on its own… so ill just carry on!

Hello!
Sounds normal. I guess it depends how much she goes to nursery, how much she then misses you so is 'soaking you up' when she has you. I would embrace it, it won't be forever. Sounds like she is doing well at nursery.

Does Dad/grandparents really work on the distraction therapy when with her - in that she is having such a good time with them that she doesn't mind leaving your side?

I remember buying my little attached toddler a ball pool and indoor soft play/climbing stuff which kept her entertained while I went about work at home ;) lots and lots of distractions. You could also give lots of 'wow, you did that by yourself' if she goes off and paints etc at the table - positive self play reinforcement as opposed to trying to peel her off you 😅 hope this keeps :)