Help with stranger danger

My boys are almost 17 months (16 adjusted) and they still have stranger danger. It's a bit unpredictable. Sometimes they are fine and other times (especially when they are tired) they will flip out if a stranger even says hi to them!!??? I know this is "normal" but I am wondering 2 things. 1. how do I help them get over this. We take them out to the store, library and park, so they are around others, just not really interacting with them. what else can I do? 2. If your child went through this when did it get better???

I love my boys but I seriously hate this about them. :gah:

 

I wish I had a good tip for you but sadly I don't. I hope someone else does! I have one that is still very shy, not sure when it will get better. But I know how you feel :hug:

 

I think you are doing all you can right now. Mine went through a shy phase and it was just something that they got out of. If strangers complimented them and they did not interact back, I would thank them for the compliment and just explain that the kids are feeling shy today. Most people are very understanding. I hope some others will have some better advice for you!

 

This is just a phase, and they will get over it! My guys are usually very outgoing, but occasionally will flip out when a stranger talks to them or tries to approach them, even if I'm right there. It's really unpredictable, so I never know when it's going to happen.

Everything I've read suggests that "stranger danger" eases by the time kids get to be about 18-24 months old. In the meantime, I think all you can to is remain calm, and reassure them. I read this in a Merck Manual: "Comforting the child and avoiding overreaction to the behavior are usually the only therapy needed."

I agree that this is so frustrating; I get horribly embarrassed when my guys freak out over someone! Last weekend they started crying when my SIL even looked at them. :blush:

 

Thank you ladies. It's nice to hear that my kids are not nuts...because sometimes I wonder lol!! Can't wait till this phase passes.