Fi And remember you don't have to HOLD them to be gentle, being with them and reassuring you are close, allow them to tell you what they want sometimes they don't want a cuddle either and sometimes they just want to cry... I think kids can feel smothered too, so let her guide you if she pushes you away stay close and talk calmly to her (I think this helps us too, it has for me before thats for sure!) but be in reach so that if she does change her mind she knows you will be there for her.

And like Kelly says don't beat yourself up if you need to get some space, a happy mummy is important too!

You are doing a great job!

*mwa*
Cailin