2.5 Yr Old Regressing?

Updated on April 15, 2009
A.D. asks from Temecula, CA
5 answers

I don't even know what I want to ask, or if I will answer my own question in this request... We are in the process of putting our house on the market - there is a lot of activity and chaos in our house but I don't really think more than usual (we have always been remodeling our place). Our girl is in FT daycare, has been since 8 months. She is now one of two older kids in her toddler class, the rest are under 2, I think. She will move up after she is potty trained so needless to say, the daycare is pushing her training - which I understand. I've also read enough to know that moving or big changes can affect the potty training process negatively so in the last week or so, I've been a bit lax about it. But that's not really my issue. Recently, she has been asking for her "binky". This is strange because first of all, she has NEVER used a binky and the only binky shaped item I have in the house is a thermometer. I don't even want her to use it but I'm thinking she's either wanting it because there are a lot of kids in her class with them and/or because of the move she is looking for a little comfort.

I guess my question is.. has anyone experienced this and if so, what happened? Do you think this is all about being with the younger kids or about the big move? I mean, we haven't really talked a lot about the move - it was a quick thing so we are still adjusting to it ourselves... Is it typical for a little one to want to be a "baby" rather than a "big girl"? I don't want her to start using the binky now! :)

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Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

K.K.

answers from Seattle on

In some ways 2.5 year olds are still "babies"....why make them grow up too fast anyway? It is natural to "regress" when there are changes...even adults do that if you haven't noticed. :):) Why would there be harm in letting her have a binky? Comfort is comfort. Or she could use her thumb which is actual a very good way to self soothe. Either way, I wouldn't worry about this....just do what it takes to make her feel safe and secure and enjoy the fact that in some ways she is still a "baby". Before you know it she will be a teenager and you will miss these times.

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M.H.

answers from Seattle on

My daughter refused to use a pacifier when we tried to give it to her as an infant. However, now she often wants one at night to chew on. She is clearly teething and its a convenient form factor for something to massage her gums.
Maybe you can find a slightly more appropriate substitution - a teething toy, or a small stuffed animal to hug?

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W.C.

answers from Seattle on

Your daughter sounds like she is experiencing some sort of stress. Instead of a binky, get a special animal (stuffed and small) or blanket (again small) that she can carry around and feel safe with. It would help her self soothe herself. She would be able to take it to the daycare. The problem is, you can never loose it. (You might want to buy two or three of them at the outset.)

When my kids started having nightmares, I bought my daughter a bear, my son got a lion, and told them that this animal was their "protector" when things were scary in the night. It worked like a "dream".

Good luck.

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E.W.

answers from Seattle on

She very well might be affected by all the flurry of getting a house ready to sell and is looking for extra comfort. I would look for ways to give her that comfort. If she potty trains, great, but if not, the stress of moving might really make it hard for her at this time.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

M.K.

answers from Seattle on

Hi A.,..
I would agree.. sometimes 2 1/2 yr olds still like to be cuddled and babied!! I love rocking my almost 3 yr old when he will let me.
When I read your request.. my first thought was molars coming in. try some teething gel on a toothbrush or baby spoon (the soft colored ones).

take care!
-marg.

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