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Expert Q&A

 

By Elizabeth Pantley
Child Behavior Expert Better Beginnings, Inc.

My 18-month-old son has yet to call me "Mommy!" He calls me and my husband "Daddy." He is able to call my husband's mother "MomMom" so he is able to make the sound. He also is able to say 10 to 15 other words. Sometimes I think it is a little "rebellion," because I will say, "Say Mommy" and he will say "Daddy." I am trying not to take it personally, but I am wondering why he is doing this?

There may be a very simple answer to your question. Perhaps, because your son doesn't hear anyone else call you Mommy he doesn't connect that name to you. I'd suggest that your husband and Grandma call you "Mommy" in very obvious ways for a week to two. I think your little one will pick it up quickly. This certainly shouldn't be considered a major crisis! A child of 18 months is too young to purposely use this kind of behavior to "rebel" in any way. I think a relaxed response and repetition should clear this up for you.

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