Stranger Anxiety
Shy, fearful behavior around strangers (meaning anyone other than the immediate family and trusted caregivers) intensifies around twelve months of age. It gradually lessens and disappears by age three except in the shiest youngsters. Negative reactions during this period tend to be more pronounced toward men than women, and least pronounced toward other children.
When a child is distressed about a “stranger” (who can actually be a relative or neighbor the child has met many times before), hold her on your lap to help her feel safe and don't pressure her to interact. Once out of the limelight and given time to observe, most toddlers grow bolder about approaching household guests. Tell Aunt Emily and Uncle Bob not to take the rejection personally.
Support your child's desire not to be touched by saying, “He doesn't want to be touched right now. He'll let you know when he's ready.”Give your child the words to hold others at bay by instructing him, “Can you say, ‘I don't like that. Please stop.’ Can you say, ‘Stop’?”
This is not the time to teach toddlers about “dangerous” strangers, or “good” versus “bad” touching. They're too young to understand these concepts, and emphasizing the issue may make them more afraid of people than they already are. Instead, begin teaching limits by helping children ward off
