Freaking out when seeing Grandma...

Has anyone else dealt with this?

My 19-month-old DD cries hysterically at the sight of my mom lately and it's really starting to upset me.

My mom watches DD one to two days per week. It seems like most of the time when DD sees my mom, it's because I'm leaving. I really think that's the problem, she sees my mom and just equates her presence with me leaving and freaks out.

When DD is with my mom at her house and I'm not there, she is perfectly fine, plays nice, even sleeps over with no problem. But my mom literally can't go near her when I'm around or she clings to me and starts screaming "Mama!"

Did anyone else go through this? My mom is so good to my DD and it really makes me sad that DD is doing this. My mom keeps saying it's separation anxiety and she understands, she's not upset, but I know deep down it is making her feel bad.

Just like my DD, I'm a mama's girl and I don't like anything upsetting my mama!

Message edited 7/1/2014 10:55:19 AM.

Re: Freaking out when seeing Grandma (or caretaker)...

This is my DS with MIL. For some strange reason when she comes over he freaks out. Doesn't do that with my parents, or FIL. I honestly have no clue why he cries at the sight of her... I know how you feel though, it makes my MIL upset. I have to tell her that he does this with everyone to make her feel better. Sorry I have no advice, but just know how you feel.

Freaking out when seeing Grandma...

We have exactly the same situation with my MIL. As you said, i think it's because he only sees her when i'm leaving. Could you set up more time for your DD and mom together (with you there as well) so she doesn't associate seeing your mom with your leaving?

Re: Freaking out when seeing Grandma...

It's separation anxiety and you kind of just have to ride it out. Maybe try spending some time with your DD and mom on the weekends so your daughter doesn't always equate your mom with you leaving.