When Is It Too Much Affection?

I think you can never give a child too much love and affection. I think the difference is when you don't want them to leave your side, or they don't want to leave your side. Then it's not affection but clinging, like you said. I don't think that comes from too much love and affection but doing things for the child and also making him or her afraid of what's out in the world.

I don't think you're doing anything wrong by giving him extra snuggles, just so long as you keep his routine in. When it's time for bed, he goes to sleep in his own bed, etc.

And remember when he gets older you are his MOM, not his friend. I've seen that mistake when the child is "all you have" and it does mess up the child.

Good luck! And you made a good decision and I commend you for it.

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It sounds like you are doing a wonderful job taking care of your son and making him feel well loved after this big life change. Some children are clingy at this age, and he may need extra affection during this time. Keep nurturing him as you are, but make a strong effort to take care of YOU. Try to get into some hobbies, clubs, groups, exercise classes, book clubs, etc., anything that you are interested in so you can have some time for you to heal and grow. Your child is your life, and always will be, but make sure you have some time to grow on your own. Your friends and family will be a great place to start, and they will be understanding of your needs and feelings right now, given that you are healing from a painful situation.

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I would say you are doing fine. He is only 18 months and this is a big change for him. It is great his dad still stays in the picture and it sounds like you still get along-though maybe not as he would like. :) Anyway, as long as you continue to realize that your son does need to develop his independence and you don't encourage him to be clingy, then he should be fine. My neighbor has a cousin who's friend divorced and she totally doted on her kids, but she went overboard and the youngest refuses to leave her side or do anything on his own. She did not encourage him to do things and would not let anyone near him emotionally.

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I agree with the other moms that no one can have too much affection. Better loved a lot than not at all. They can go to therapy someday if they feel like you are overprotective or something.And I'm not kidding. In this day and age with all the neglect, pat yourself on the back for making the right decision and don't worry about overdoing it on the hugs and love stuff. They eventually go to school, get friends and your acceptance of him at this time will pave the way for his trusting relationships. Do not worry, just enjoy your baby. I'll bet soon enough there will be someone special who would love to share in both your lives.

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