Fear of Strangers in Toddlerhood (Adapted from Healthy Steps)

Fear of strangers or "stranger suspicion" is very common during the toddler years. Toddlers are attached to familiar caregivers in their lives and feel safest with them. Toddlers are now capable of more complex thoughts and fears, which can be shown by their avoiding adults. Sometimes they even suddenly avoid relatives they have known for a long time- hurting their feelings! Toddlers can also be scared of adults because they can be very annoying! Adults can come too close and invade a toddler's personal space with pinches to cheeks, kisses, and tickles. So, although your child's fear of strangers can be upsetting, it's a normal and understandable response. Most often, children "grow out" of this phase.

Adapted from Healthy Steps. Edited and Compiled by the Center for Promotion of Child Development Through Primary Care 2011