There might come a time when your baby starts to behave a little differently. She might be a bit clingier, become fearful of people, or cry when she’s left alone. This is known as separation anxiety, and it’s a normal part of your infant’s development. Show
Read on to find out what causes separation anxiety, when it typically starts, and what measures you can take to help reassure your baby or toddler as she goes through this developmental stage. What Is Separation Anxiety?Separation anxiety is a phase that almost all children go through. It’s a completely normal part of the emotional development of your infant or toddler, and your little one will probably grow out of it when he’s about 2 years old. What Are the Signs of Separation Anxiety?During the separation anxiety phase, your baby may exhibit the following signs:
When Does Separation Anxiety Start?For many babies, separation anxiety starts at around 8 months of age, but you may start seeing indications of separation anxiety in your baby as early as 4 months. That’s because between 4 and 7 months babies begin to realize that people and objects exist even when they can’t see them. This is called object permanence. For example, if you leave the room your baby will know that you’ve gone away. Even though she knows you still exist, she will become upset because she can't see you. Without any understanding of time (this doesn't develop until she's older), she won't know when you'll return or even if you will return and may cry or put up a fuss. How Long Does Separation Anxiety Last?All children develop on their own timelines, but the separation anxiety phase typically peaks when a baby is between 10 months and 18 months old. It usually goes away during the last half of your baby’s second year. The length of the separation anxiety period may be affected by how you respond to certain situations. For example, if your response during a crying spell is to run and comfort your baby, he may learn that a crying fit will prevent you from leaving in the future. It’s natural for you to want to comfort your little one when he’s upset. Just be aware that how you react can influence how he responds in a similar situation later on. As your baby becomes a toddler, he may still show signs of separation anxiety. For a 1-year-old, brief periods of separation (more on this in the next section) can help develop his independence. In other words, you can help your toddler learn to await your return instead of throwing a tantrum (get tips on eliminating tantrums). In some rare circumstances, separation anxiety can last through the elementary school years. Check in with your child's healthcare provider if you’re concerned about your child’s anxiety. How to Deal With Your Baby’s Separation AnxietyThese are some steps you can take to cope with your baby’s separation anxiety:
Separation Anxiety in Babies at NightIt can be challenging if your baby feels anxious when you leave the room before bed, or wakes and is upset to find you’re not there during the night. This can be a trying and exhausting situation for both you and your baby, but rest assured that this period will pass. Try to stay calm and develop a consistent pattern of behavior during this phase. In time, your baby will learn that you’ll still be there in the morning. Tactics and Tips to Help You Avoid Separation Anxiety at NightHere are a few strategies you can try to lessen separation anxiety at night:
Separation anxiety is a natural part of your baby’s development as she moves toward toddlerhood and becomes more independent. Consider trying some of the tips in this article and speak to your healthcare provider for more advice. Keep in mind that in time this difficult phase will pass. If you’re looking for ways to get rewarded for all those diaper purchases you’re making, download the Pampers Club app today. In which stage separation anxiety occurs?Separation anxiety is a common part of children's development. It can start at around 8 months and reach its peak in babies aged 14-18 months. It usually goes away gradually throughout early childhood. Fear of strangers is similar to separation anxiety.
What is separation anxiety in infants?Separation anxiety refers to the anxiety a baby or young child experiences when their caregiver leaves them, such as when they drop them off at daycare or leave for work. Babies and toddlers experiencing separation anxiety will become more clingy than usual, and may cry when their caregiver tries to leave.
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