I'm worried that DD is upset with me, please help!

[autumnmom20]

I've been back at work for 2 months after being on leave for 1 year. DD spends the day with my mom. Since the transition, she's been somewhat avoidant of me when I come home. She waves and smiles when I leave, but when I come home she ignores me/walks right past me. Normally it takes her a few minutes to acknowledge me. Then she's usually fine and will want to play. Could she be having a hard time adjusting to the change or am I just being overally paranoid?

[newmamalizzy]

Sounds to me like she's handling it, but misses you.  The book Playful Parenting addresses this a bit, and it seems like it's a normal way for a child express their feelings about separation.  You left me, now I'm going to leave you.  I would just try to really keep pushing for connection when you get home, like you're the one seeking her out, and then give her a good dose of solid attention before you head off to do other things. 

[organicviolin]

I second the playful parenting.  She's definitely mad at you, and that's ok.  No need to add mama guilt to an already full plate if you know what I mean!  Just force the connection.  Get on her level, look her in the eye, talk to her and hug her, even if she tries walking by, grab her and give her a doozy of a smooch and a hug saying "It's an emergency! I need a refill before I fall over!" and if she tries ignoring you, fall over dramatically and loudly.  Yes you'll feel really goofy and over the top, but that's what kids respond best to.