So many of our kids go through that “clinging” stage—some of them pass through it more than once. We may chuckle and joke about it, but when you are the parent of a child who is constantly hanging off your leg, wants to be held, or physically stuck to you from morning until night, it can get stressful and impossible. You start to fantasize about something as simple as just going to the bathroom alone for 35 seconds…
We try it all—sneaking away, trying to pawn them off on someone else, locking the bathroom door and listening to them scream—but what can we really do as parents dealing with a clinging child?
Try to remember that clinging is normal and is a sign that your child is feeling insecure or having separation anxiety (also normal). Every child is different and while one of your children may seem incredibly independent, another will need more reassurance. The more loving, hugging, and affection you are able to give—the more secure the child will feel and possibly the less likely to need to physically cling to mom or dad for security.
Try not to get angry, scold, or belittle a child who is feeling clingy as this will really only make things worse. Instead, consider what you can do to be reassuring. Some children will feel better if we just remain within their sight while others will be content to be near us and hear us talk lovingly and reassuringly to them. If you are able to NOT take the clinging as a sign of deficiency or something you have done wrong as a parent, you might be better able to provide love and reassurance without getting overwhelmed. Some children will get clingy when they are on the brink of a developmental leap or moving through different types and kinds of transition. Extra affection and reassurance during these times can help ease the clinginess.
There is nothing wrong with needing a break as a parent, but in order to keep from making the child’s clinginess worse—you might want to come up with a good distraction (fun toys and interesting company) or a substitute so that you can regroup and get regenerated.
Also: Tips for Dealing with a Clingy Child