Thanks guys. It's good to know this is normal. I guess some children just struggle more with separation anxiety than other kids do.
I really want to be there for my DD and I want her to be happy. It's hard when she cries for me and doesn't want anyone else to be with her. But I sometimes need time out for myself.
It really isn't easy, especially when you need some time out, so I hope its just a phase. Don't feel guilty that it was somehting you've done or didn't do - it could just be her character - she may just need a bit more security from you at this age to help her grow and become a more confident child when she's older.
Out of curiosity, will your DD play with DH? You might already do this, but I know my DD loves having a play with her dad - he throws her round, tickles her, chases her, etc. And because they have a great time doing stuff together, DH doesn't feel neglected when DD is tired or sick, etc and just wants to cuddle me.
Another idea, not sure if it will work, but is there something that your DD can do with her dad - such as swimming lessons, something they can do one on one without you. DD has been going swimming since she was 6months old, and the majority of the time, DH is the one to get in the pool with her, I've always just sat waiting with the towel on the side.
SammyRo - DD will happily play with her dad at times but does tend to want me more than him. I like the idea of finding an activity for DD to do with her dad. I don't think it could be swim lessons though cos she's scared of the water and then will want me, but maybe something she enjoys doing like going to the park would be good for them to do together at least once a week without me coming. Thanks for the suggestion.
i didnt really read fully through your other responses but just wanted to give you some support. i totally understand cause my DD1 was the same. it was soooo hard because (this may sound selfish) i kinda felt trapped at times.. no one else would do for her and so it was basically up to me and me only ALL the time.
I felt guilty also because my DH felt bad that he couldnt help and that she didnt like him.(well he felt she didnt like him) i also felt a little resentful at times.. (sheesh i am being very honest here arent i) :-)
but now they are really close. they have a really great relationship, the older she got the better she got. so dont know if that was very helpful but sometimes it makes you feel better to know that others have been in the same position and it gets better. :-)
I'm in the same boat with DD, she loves me TO DEATH! Only wants me to give her breakfast, carry her, put her to bed - everything. It's both flattering and suffocating at the same time!
Since I returned to part time work DD spends heaps more time with DH (who is the most attentive, involved and wonderful loving father ever), it has helped her their relationship a lot. He takes her to the park, out for milkshakes, swimming (she also didn't like the water at first but he took baby steps wtih her and now she loves it).
My advice would be to have DH take her out for some fun activities and hopefully she will learn that he's not that bad! Although no one will ever beat Mummy...
It is nice to have some time to yourself occasionally
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It really isn't easy, especially when you need some time out, so I hope its just a phase. Don't feel guilty that it was somehting you've done or didn't do - it could just be her character - she may just need a bit more security from you at this age to help her grow and become a more confident child when she's older.
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