Toodler needing constant attention - need coping strategies

[Winnie1]

Ok, to start I am not complaining, I just need some coping suggetions.

DD is almost 6 months old now and DS is 2 and 3 months - on the whole I give him full credit for liking his sister and being interested in her (so far) not wanting to do her any harm.

I am finding myself getting really REALLY cranky/frustrated, because I can never seem to do enough for him. He has always demanded a lot of my time from birth and I have pretty much given it to him.

As DD gets older, he is seeming to need even more - he always must sit in the middles of us, if I am down on the floor playing with her, on the couch, outside - taking a photo - bless him anything and he is there, frustratingly (still) even when I am trying to get her to sleep on a bad day.

I think he tolerates a lot - but he will just not do a thing without me if I am there, he is like a loof he just hangs and does things that require me to be 'telling him off' (not proud) - so he still manages to get my attention He goes to daycare one day a week and apparently plays happy, is never ready to go home when I get him etc etc I do do lots of things with him inside and outside of the house, have play dates etc

I just wonder if there is something I haven;t htought of, so that he feels reassured that he is still loved etc - or will it magically settle down??

Not trying to push him - but you know as an adult when you are having an "I don't want to play day, what the heck do you do?

[tamarab30]

As you said in your post, if he's getting even negative attention, it's still attention, which is what he is seeking. Easier said than done, but it sounds as though he may need more positive attention (it does become easier to do if you can make it a habit, but then I always have issues about too much praise as well, so not sure if my opinion is really that valid lol).
I would look at asking him to help you out perhaps, like can you get me the nappy for the baby? And then carry on a bit about how independant and "BIG BOY " he is becoming.
Been a while since I've had young ones so hopefully some of the wise women on here can help you out a bit more

[marchbean]

I can understand how you feel, although I only have one (so it should be easier hey??) I need to remind myself that he is only little, and as frustrating as it is for me, its worse for him. Without fail, getting out of the house when possible always helps, even a quick half hour down at the park make a difference.

good luck