Dealing with separation anxiety

Dealing with separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is a normal part of a child's development in which your baby will cry when you leave the room. In general it becomes worse around 10 to 18 months and then it gradually solves itself. Your child will eventually become less fearful when you leave her as she learns to remain comforted in your absence and can anticipate your return.

To accustom your child to your absence, practice with different situations at home where you can leave your child in another room. If your child cries, call out to him or here and let his/her know that you are still there. Your child will eventually learn that he/she is still save even when you are not present and that you will always reappear.

In order to minimize crying during separations, try not to make a big deal when you leave. Try to downplay your leaving by having someone else distract your child with a favorite toy or game after you have said your good-bye. Your child will cry as you leave, but the crying should stop quickly and eventually show interest in whoever is watching him or her once you are completely out of sight.