toddler acting out when dad COMES HOME?

Darcel - posted on 06/27/2011

Yea. It is my son's way of saying: "where the he** have you been Daddy?" Remember for a 2yr old 4 - 5 days is a LONG time and they have every right to be ticked at these "sudden" disappearing acts. Little toddlers do not understand business trips. Plenty of hugs and kisses from daddy upon return, and hearing his voice on the telephone when he is away will help alot.

Cilla - posted on 06/05/2011

I believe your little one wants daddy's attention. This is their only way to say I missed you daddy, play with me not mummy etc its quite common enjoy it like the rest of their childhood i did now mine is 14 years and i still tease him about it lol

Sabrina - posted on 06/05/2011

thank you both for your reply. me and my husband both found these posts really helpful. its good to know its not just in our heads. thanks again and take care.

Michelle - posted on 06/04/2011

My son doesn't want to have anything but daddy time for a week or more after my husband gets back (he's 3). It seems like I just get him settled down and it's time for daddy to pack and leave again. We've just been trying to give him special daddy time when he's home. My daughters are a little different in that they are kind of standoffish with my husband when he first comes back. We tried to work it out so they each get some private daddy time too. Still working out the kinks and it's a day by day thing.

Moni - posted on 06/04/2011

My kiddo is 2 1/2 and completely acts out when Daddy comes home. The first 24-48 hours when he leaves and the first 24-48 hours after he comes home are difficult. Unlike with your kiddo though, my DD often asks for Daddy, but then won't let him near her. Another friend with a traveling husband goes through the same thing with her kiddo, you're not alone!

My hubby and I know this is going to happen and know there's an adjustment period. Our kiddos can't verbalize that they're upset with Daddy for being gone, so they act out, even when they come home. We make sure we don't have too many things planned for the first day home and let my DD and hubby have some bonding time. Find what works for your kiddo, activity wise, to incorporate Daddy back into the routine.