CLAIM:
Clinginess in babies after the first year is a normal developmental phase and reflects secure emotional attachment, not a behavioural problem. It indicates healthy psychological and emotional development rather than dependency or weakness.
FACT:
True. Clinginess in babies is a normal part of emotional and psychological development and reflects secure attachment and healthy bonding with caregivers. However, experts advise that parents should seek medical advice if the child shows unusual signs such as extreme withdrawal, excessive irritability, sudden behavioural changes, developmental delays, or lack of social interaction, as these may indicate an underlying health or developmental concern.
In a viral Instagram reel posted by Dr Madhavi Bharadwaj, a paediatrician with over 1.6 million followers, the doctor addresses a common concern many parents voice after their child’s first birthday - sudden clinginess. She explains that caregivers often worry when babies who were previously independent begin refusing to leave their mother’s side, constantly seeking physical closeness and reassurance.
Dr Bharadwaj reflects the worries she frequently hears from parents. “What has happened to the baby after the first birthday? The baby has become so clingy. He doesn’t let me go. He leaves everything and climbs on me. He doesn’t even go to his dad or grandma. He sticks to me all the time,” she says, echoing the frustration and confusion many mothers experience.
She then shifts focus to child development, explaining that this behaviour is not a problem but a natural developmental phase. According to her, while the first year of life is largely focused on physical milestones such as crawling, walking, and motor development, the second year brings rapid emotional and cognitive growth. During this stage, children begin to develop emotional awareness, needs, and attachment patterns. “You call it clinginess, I call it secure attachment. Your child’s psychological and emotional health is very good,” she says, reassuring parents that such behaviour reflects emotional security rather than weakness or dependency.
Dr Bharadwaj also explains that babies instinctively seek comfort from their primary caregiver when they feel overwhelmed, confused, or distressed. She reminds parents that this phase is temporary and reflects a healthy bond. “That time is not far when we will close the door of our room and say, ‘Mom, please knock before you enter,’” she adds.
The reel has gained significant traction on social media, crossing 2.6 million views, 61,600 likes, and over 18,000 shares, sparking widespread discussion about whether clinginess in babies is normal or a cause for concern.
Is clinginess in babies normal?
Dr Amit Gupta, Senior Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, emphasises that clinginess in babies is not a behavioural problem but a normal developmental milestone.
He explains that as infants grow, they begin forming strong emotional bonds with their primary caregivers, which often leads to behaviours such as wanting to be held frequently, crying when separated, or seeking constant reassurance.
“It is completely normal. In fact, it is a developmental milestone,” Dr Gupta says. “Babies start showing clingy behaviour, separation anxiety, and a strong preference for parents. They may cry when they do not see them or want to stay close most of the time.”
According to him, this phase usually begins in late infancy and continues into toddlerhood. “Clinginess typically starts around five to seven months of age and may continue till about one to one-and-a-half years. As the child grows and becomes more confident and independent, this gradually reduces,” he explains.
Dr Gupta notes that this behaviour reflects emotional security, not weakness. Babies instinctively seek comfort from caregivers because it makes them feel safe and protected. “This is a sign of healthy bonding. The baby feels emotionally secure and comfortable with the parent. Separation anxiety and proximity-seeking behaviour are part of normal brain and emotional development,” he says.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) emphasises that responsive caregiving and physical affection play a crucial role in building emotional security in infants. It explains that close and attentive interactions help babies feel safe, which supports their emotional development and gradually fosters independence.
According to the NHS, “the more you cuddle, look at and play with your baby, the more secure they’ll feel, and the more independent they’ll become.” This reassurance helps infants develop confidence and reduces anxiety over time.
“This is because they will feel confident that you will be there for them if they need you, so they do not feel the need to hold on tightly to you,” it adds.
It also describes responsive interaction as essential for growth and development. “Responding to your baby is like a game of tennis where they serve and you return. This helps them grow and develop,” the NHS notes.
However, Dr Gupta cautions that parents should remain attentive to unusual behavioural changes. “If the child suddenly becomes extremely withdrawn, stops interacting, shows developmental delays, sudden changes in feeding, or does not respond socially, then parents should consult a paediatrician. In rare cases, it could indicate a developmental or health concern,” he advises.
This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS.
