Stranger anxiety at 18 months - lasting forever?
Hardcore meltdown if anyone but us or grandma holds him. Friends, even partner's parents. Lasting 6+ months now. When does it ease?
4 Replies
1/17/2026
Peaks around 8-18 months and gradually fades by 2-3 years. Some kids longer.
1/18/2026
Don't force interaction - let him come to people on his own time. Pressure makes it worse.
1/20/2026
Totally normal developmental phase. It's actually a sign of healthy attachment.
1/23/2026
Mine eased significantly when she started nursery part-time at 18 months.