A toddler who is withdrawn could be physically sick or emotionally distressed. Is anything going on in your family life that could make your youngster feel sad right now? Has Dad been away on a business trip? Has grandma gone on vacation? Have you had to work extra long hours? Toddlers are very attached to their caregivers and notice their absence. Toddlers can also be disturbed by mean babysitters, teachers, siblings or peers. They can be traumatized by painful or frightening experiences, including marital conflict in the home. If you think that there is a circumstance that might be causing your little one to be troubled, you can meet with a mental health professional for ideas on how to resolve the situation and/or repair the psychological upset. If nothing out of the ordinary is going on and the withdrawn behavior persists, a visit to the pediatrician is in order. A normally healthy, happy youngster should not have a serious persistent behavior or mood change.  Sarah Chana