Coping with separation anxiety in babies and toddlers
Separation anxiety in toddlers is a normal and healthy part of development though it can be upsetting for you and your baby. Here are some tips to help you both cope with separation anxiety.
- Start practicing short separations, leaving your baby with someone they know and are comfortable with while you go for a short walk or run a quick errand.
- Try turning it into a game like peek-a-boo.
- Give your baby a scarf, burping cloth, or toy with your scent on it to hold while you’re away.
- Talk about what you’ll do together later once you’ve returned.
- Make goodbyes a positive experience. Your baby can pick up on your anxiety or distress.
- A positive goodbye followed by a happy reunion can be an important life lesson.
- Don’t leave your baby when they’re hungry, tired or feeling unwell, or any time you feel they genuinely need you there.
- Ask your doctor for advice on separation anxiety if your baby continues to be distressed when left with others.
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