help with my 2 year old son?

My two yr son has a serious case of seperation anxiety. I can't even go upstairs while his dad, grandmother+grandfather, and 2 sisters are still with him. He has a melt down. I have 1 child that is younger so I know it's a phase, but this seems really bad. He's never been left anywhere- I'm a stay home mom. why is he like this?! how can I stop this?! It's driving me nuts and it's making my husband crazy too.PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answers:
It's great that you seem to have so much support. I felt your letter could have been written by me ten years ago. I have a 13, 11 and 10 year old.
I learned my lesson when my son went to preschool at three. I too thought he wouldn't survive with out me. The experienced teacher took the reluctant kids by the hand turned them around so that they couldn't see the worried looks on our faces. Told them to wave goodbye and marched them in the door. About four of us mom's didn't know what to do so we had breakfast at Friendly's. Most anxiety is because they can read our emotions so well.

My advice...find someone confident to keep your son occupied for a couple hours. Make sure there is an activity you can talk about. Plan to spend the day out not just upstairs. Shopping, lunch with a friend or your sisters. Or a plan a rendevous with your husband! When you return do not gush about how much you missed him. Tell him a little about what you did and comment on what he did. "Wow what a great finger painting you did. Let's put it on the fridge." or "I heard Grandma let you help mix the pudding. Can I taste some!" Do not ask how he did just assume he was fine. Do this weekly if possible. Make sure you check your worries at the door. Vow to be upbeat and positive.

Your son has a lot of people around who care about him allow them that pleasure. Take the time to care about you and your husband.

Have a family date. Early afternoon might be best. Tell you son you'd like to have a surprise for daddy and you need his help. Let him pick out an easy make ahead meal or order pizza, a variety of music everyone will like. Have your son take Daddy and your little one for a walk so you can set up the surprise. Take a bubble bath. Candles or room freshener, music, flowers the works. Have everything ready. Get dressed up. Eat and dance with them when they get home.

Good Luck. You are a great Mom. Don't forget to spoil the woman in you.

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help with my 2 year old son?

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