those with a young DC that has a hard time with new people or stranger anxiety

I wasn't sure how to word the title but here is my question.

DD has a tough time with new people. She is 14 months old She is very cautious and will cry. I want her to get used to being with other people.

Right now my parents watch her 3 days and I have a babysitter one day and she does fine with them.

I just joined the gym with babysitting. I wanted to join for me and also for her to get used to being with others. She cried which is what I expected.

How long do you think it will take her to get used to being there without crying. She will probably only be going 2 times a week.

Message edited 3/9/2012 10:58:41 AM.

Re: those with a young DC that has a hard time with new people or stranger anxiety

No advice because I'm going through now, too. DD was initially fine with the gym--she'd wave goodbye to me. Then I started going at a busier time (due to a change in her nap schedule) last week and she cries as soon as we walk in. The babysitters say she stops after a few minutes and plays the whole time. She's happy when I come back. I'm hoping the more we go, the easier it will be.

DD has always been a little shy around new people, but her separation anxiety didn't really set in until 13 months. I'm hoping it's short-lived.

Re: those with a young DC that has a hard time with new people or stranger anxiety

I could have written these exactly! My DD is 14 months and has always been shy around strangers but it has been terrible the past month or so. Even with my DH she flips out and has to be with me at all times. If she is not touching me or at least close enough to touch me if she so desires, she starts screaming. Once I leave, she is fine. I work full time and my mom watches her no problem.

I wish I had some advice. We have been going to the Little Gym and my DD has been getting better every week. I have been trying not to pick her up if she starts clinging or crying. I just try to distract her with something else.

I guess it must be the age!!

Re: those with a young DC that has a hard time with new people or stranger anxiety

My DD has been pretty bad with this lately - she will be 15 months next week. Whenever we go somewhere like Gymboree or someones house, she takes a while to warm up. Usually she starts to have fun and be herself just as its time to leave! I hope they all grow out of it soon.