My toddler prefers her mum over her father
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My 2 year old loves playing with her father most of the day, however when it comes to morning routine or night routine, she only wants me as mum to change her nappy, get her dressed and say goodnight while telling her dad to “go away!”. When her dad keeps approaching to interact, she starts crying loudly and pushing him away. I’m worried that her father might stop trying to interact with her at these times and give up. What would be the best way to approach this situation?     
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Answers (3)
Best answer chosen by asker
My granddaughter is the same way. She loves both her mom and dad but prefers them at distinct and separate times in her little life. She acts the same with me. At any moment, she may want to play and love on me, and the next, she only wants dad to hold her and have nothing to do with me.
This behavior is developmentally appropriate for her age, so don't worry or be offended.
Little kids can be finicky and understandably self-centered. Whatever the need or mood is at the moment, they choose who they want to fill their needs.
Tell your husband to enjoy the sweet time she chooses to be with him and to keep trying.
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Best answer chosen by asker
Your child's behaviour is definitely developmentally appropriate and I can only imagine how hard it must be for fathers when their kids to through these 'I want mum' phases. My children are much older now and they still just want me when they are sick. I think the important thing here is to allow your daughter to have her own boundaries and gently shift the focus to kindness and feelings.
For example, when your daughter tells her father to 'go away', you can remind her that that hurts daddy's feelings. Is there a part of the night time routine that he could play a key role in? Perhaps you could change her and get her ready for bed and then you could all sit together (if she wants to be on your lap that is ok) whilst Dad reads the bedtime story. This way he can be included but your daughter is still getting what she needs to feel secure at this transition time. Best of luck.
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Best answer chosen by asker
Child favoritism towards a parent is not uncommon. In your case, the healthy sign is that your kid likes to play with her father most of the day. It is only for few specific activities that she wants only you.
In many instances this differentiation between parents or preference for a specific parent is based on repeated experiences i.e. because mother has been taking care of night time routine so no one else is supposed to do it. Another reason might be that your daughter thinks that her father is very good as playing buddy but not as someone meeting morning time needs.
While you are getting your girl ready for sleep, make her realize that it is more fun when father is around. Tell her that father can also do things that mama does and vice versa. You can play a role reversal game, for one day you behave like dad and become play buddy, while dad becomes mama and does your chore.
Once in a while, your husband can assume your responsibilities in your absence, it can also help her in accepting him in those roles.
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