I have a 16 month old too that is a suck and is babied at home. I don't get into the habit of holding the children a lot or entertaining them. He has been with me for 3 months now and still sometimes freaks out when he can't see me etc. I just bend down and give hugs as needed, usually hold him for a few minutes at drop off when mom comes in (holding him) but he just has to go play. I think you just need to put him down and he will eventually get it. Still lots of hugs but no need to be held constantly.