How to Deal with a Clingy Toddler

A clingy toddler is one of those universal experiences that makes parenting both heartwarming and exhausting. Whether they’re glued to your leg while you’re cooking or crying the moment you leave the room, clingy behavior can take a toll.

Before you wish away those clingy hugs, it’s worth understanding the “why” behind the clinginess—and how the right tips and tools, like the Tushbaby Hip Carrier, can make the clingy infant phase more manageable.

What Does “Clingy” Mean for Toddlers?

In toddlers, clinginess means constantly wanting to be near a parent or caregiver, often with them needing physical touch or reassurance. Clinginess can come in many forms, like your toddler shadowing you from room to room, protesting solo play, or insisting on being in your arms 24/7.

Clinginess in toddlers is often linked to key developmental milestones. Separation anxiety, learning new skills, or changes in their environment can all play a part. By getting to the root of their clinginess, you can better support your clingy baby through these stages.

One of the best ways to empower yourself as a parent during these tricky phases is to lean on a carrier like the Tushbaby Hip Carrier. The Tushbaby carrier features a supportive hip seat that keeps your baby close, providing comfort and physical contact during their clingy stage while evenly distributing their weight across your body.

Tushbaby also features built-in lumbar support that promotes proper posture and reduces strain on your back and arms, enabling you to carry on with daily tasks and activities—all without sacrificing your baby's happiness. Plus, with roomy built-in storage pockets, parents can ditch the diaper bag and keep both hands free for velcro baby snuggles.

When Do Toddlers Get Clingy?

Clinginess is generally most common at certain ages when your child hits significant developmental milestones. Here’s a quick look at when to expect it:

Around 9 months: Babies start to develop object permanence around this time, meaning they understand that things (including you) still exist when they’re out of sight. This new awareness can bring on separation anxiety and make your baby extra clingy.
18 months - 2 years: As toddlers become more mobile and independent, they might also become clingier. They’re testing their boundaries, but they still need the safety net you provide! Attaching The Snug to your Tushbaby carrier can help during the tricky toddlering stage. It helps you carry your little one face-in or face-out hands-free, and when they’re ready to explore, you can just stash it in your Tushbaby—easy on, easy off.
3 years and up: Clinginess can pop up during times of change, like starting preschool or moving to a new house. They’re beginning to understand complex emotions at this age, but they might not have the words to express them.

Why Does Clinginess Happen?

If your toddler’s suddenly glued to your side, don’t fret! Here are a few reasons why they might be extra clingy:

Separation anxiety: It’s no surprise when a clingy baby grows into a clingy toddler—as they get older, they start to realize just how unpredictable the world can be without you right there.
Teething: Pain and discomfort can make a clingy baby even clingier, so they often need extra comfort and support during teething phases. Discover more tips to help a teething baby here!
Breastfeeding habits: If you’re still nursing, your toddler might rely on breastfeeding for comfort, making them even clingier. The Tushbaby Hip Carrier can help out again here—it doubles as a nursing pillow, so you can easily feed on demand while keeping your little one close and your bodies supported.

What Does Clinginess Look Like in Toddlers?

Wondering if your toddler’s behavior is clinginess? Here’s what clinginess often looks like at this age:

Refusing to be put down
Crying when you leave the room
Following you around constantly
Difficulty sleeping without being held

Tushbaby Tip: As clingy toddlers grow, they constantly want “up!” “down!” and “up!!” again. Tushbaby’s open design makes it easy to pop them on and off the seat—but if you don’t want to wear your carrier when your little one’s on the move, you can tote it with our Crossbody Straps! These sleek straps keep your Tushbaby and essentials close with a polished twist while your carrier’s not being used for babywearing.

How to Stop a Toddler Being Clingy

Many parents wonder how to handle a clingy toddler. If you're in the thick of toddler life with a little one who won’t let go, here are some ways to manage it:

Acknowledge their feelings: Validate their need for closeness by offering hugs or comfort when they’re feeling insecure.
Encourage independence: Create safe opportunities for your child to explore without you to gradually build up their confidence.
Establish routines: Predictable routines can help reduce clinginess by providing structure and security.
Practice short separations: Start small—step out of the room for a minute or two to help them get comfortable with a little time apart.
Use distractions: Introduce fun activities or toys to capture their attention and shift their focus away from you. Keep those distractions handy with our crossbody belt bag The Pack, or with Tushbaby’s storage pockets—so you’re always prepared when you’re on the move.
Avoid reinforcing clinginess: Comfort is key, but try not to give in to every call for attention.

How to Deal with a Clingy Toddler

It’s easy to feel “touched out” when your little one is constantly glued to you. Here’s how to handle it:

Take breaks when you can. Step away for a quick breather, even if it’s just to enjoy a coffee while your toddler plays close by.
Encourage playdates or solo play to help both of you get comfortable with short moments of separation.

FAQs

Are breastfed babies more clingy?

Breastfed babies may seem clingier, but this behavior is often tied to their natural need for comfort and bonding rather than breastfeeding itself.

How long does the clingy phase last?

The duration of clinginess varies depending on the child. It often comes in phases, usually triggered by changes or developmental leaps. But with a little bit of patience—and the right parenting gear—you can help your child comfortably through clingy stages.

Manage the clingy stage with comfort and convenience by your side - shop Tushbaby today!