new dp and issues with my dd..

[chocolatepuff]

Hi there

not sure if this is the right place to post, but here goes.

Been with new dp for a few months now. when i first introduced him to dd (now 2.11) it was as a friend in settings like the park, occasionally him over for dinner etc. she has been a bit shy around him but seemed to get on with him and like him. the last few weeks (since she has had chicken pox infact) she not only has been super clingy to me, but shes been playing up a bit with him. i think she may feel threatened by him taking me away? she also has been not wanting to go to her dad and has cried when he has come to collect her. (she goes to his at the weekend)

anyone had similar experience of this? i feel it must be normal wrt toddlers, getting over illness and feeling clingy, separation anxiety etc. would appreciate some reassurance that it is(!?) and also strategies to make things easier and more comfortable for her, and help her feel more relaxed around new dp.

thank u

My youngest DD was just younger than yours when she met my new partner, and in much the same way as you it was a slow introduction in parks, etc.

How big a part does DP play in her life? Is he around a lot, and when he does does he interact with her, play with her, read to her etc?

Children her age get clingy etc when they have been ill and are feeling under the weather, chances are if you were still with her father she would do the same to him.

How does your DP react when she plays up with him?

Perhaps he could take her to the park for an hour or so just the two of them, to build their relationship without you being there?

Sorry I can't be of more help

Thanks for your reply toxic. She sees him maybe twice a week.. Once at home in the evening and once at the weekend, out and about. He does interact and play with her but he doesn't 'persevere' with it, if that makes sense.. Like he'll come in and be like 'hi dd! What u up to?' etc, a bit in her face perhaps, and she's a bit shy.. Then she comes round and wants to play but his effort has waned.. I guess they'll work it out in time!

Good idea about him taking her to the park, I know he's up for that too. Not sure how she'd feel about it at the moment though..

How did it go with ur dd? How long did it take for them to bond and how much time did he spend with her? Sorry for all questions!

Oh and when she's being mardy with him, he just laughs and makes a joke out of it.. I've spoken to him about it, and about not taking it personally, and he completely understands and gets it