When A DCK Can't Get Enough

[Mary Poppins]

I have a 2 yo dcg who can't get enough hugs, cuddles, etc. She tells me "I love you" and it makes me smile but at the same time it breaks my heart because she says it so much.

She came to me from a large dc center (I have a small hdc) and is VERY attached to her blankie and stuffed animal she brings daily, almost to the point of obsession. I'm wanting to limit her access to them but she is relatively new and I don't want to traumatize her during this transition so at this point the rule is they have to stay on the couch but then that is where she wants to be all day (if not in my lap).

I would love to spend all day cuddling her but we all know that's not possible.

Any suggestions on how to help her work through this? :confused:

[bice99]

I have had a few who constantly have their lovies and blankies at home. Here they went in their cubbies at arrival. Came out for naps and then went home. We did that for awhile and then went cold turkey with both items staying in the car. One of the biggest problems was that the kids were afraid someone would - oh no - touch, their things during the day! So they would guard them if they weren't put away. Our cubbies are by the front door and we mainly play in the family room. But when the bus picked up/dropped off, all the kids were by the door watching.

Good luck. Transitions can be hard on little ones

[cheerfuldom]

just make slow goals to get her weaned off this behavior. normally I would do it cold turkey but she really does seem like a sensitive little one that could have used a loving caregiver from the start. it really is sad how some kids from big daycare are just so starved for attention. they are so happy to get even a hug or word of acknowledgement and practically pass out if an adult plays with them.

[Heidi]

It's not just big daycare, though! My dc kids came from a small non-regulated provider, and the little girl who's 3 acts just like this. "I love you" a MILLION times a day, especially when she's been caught doing something naughty!