'My three-year-old son gets upset every time I have to run to the bathroom or need to lie down'

Establishing a routine is one challenge; sustaining it is quite another

Being shy and unhappy are two different things

Am I fighting a losing battle?

Your baby is still developing 'people permanence', or an understanding that people still exist even when we do not see them. So it is good for your daughter to experience these mini yet gradually increasing separations from you while building a connection with your childminder

"When they play alone for even short bursts of time, they may need us to leave their favourite toys or books within reach or set them up with blocks before we can step away."

"Feeling cold when outdoors without adequate clothing or when it is especially cold outside is a normal sensory response but feeling cold all of the time or when indoors (once the space is adequately heated) can indicate an intolerance to cold or a temperature sensitivity."

"You cannot do much more than you already are to prepare your son, or yourself, for the change that is coming. You have clearly told him enough to keep him excited."

"We all need friends in our lives, even though it might be challenging to find people who understand you, enjoy being with you and with whom you feel a genuine connection."

"His world has been upended, and he has to share you with this new baby he is still getting to know while trying to work out how he fits in - it can be overwhelming and he is allowed to struggle in this adjustment phase."