Toddlers can be moody too.
Why does my toddler sometimes reject my affection? | BabyCenter
Developmental psychologist Susanne Denham on what can trigger your toddler's rebuffs.
Toddlers' moods can change as quickly — and with as little warning — as the weather. There are about a million reasons why your child might be pushing you away (or suddenly seem desperate for a snuggle). While the best advice is usually just to wait it out like a thunderstorm, here's a list of some of the more common reasons your toddler might be acting standoffish and how to respond:
He's had a bad day.
Just like grown-ups, kids have days when all they want to do is crawl under a rock and stay there. While the issues may be less complex than those adults face, disappointment and frustration can bring out the loner in a toddler. Maybe he didn't get a turn on the swing at the park or he got reprimanded at daycare. Either way, he doesn't want your hugs or cuddles to make him feel better.
How to respond: Respect his desire for distance but let him know that you're there if he wants your help. He may just have to lick his wounds on his own and will seek you out after he's done pouting.
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