Milkbank Blog
Dealing With Separation Anxiety
My little baby daughter has been experiencing Separation Anxiety. Just two days ago my husband’s friend was over for a short visit when he thrusted our 8-month-old into his arms. His friend is only 23-years-old and seemed inexperienced with holding babies. My daughter wailed so loud!
It was the first time she looked upset at a stranger holding her. Perhaps she sensed his nervousness? Then today at a work-related picnic, my husband thrust the baby again into this woman’s arms. My daughter cried out loud again, tears streaming down her face. This woman is in her 40’s and never had children. Twenty minutes later, another victim got to hold my daughter. My husband was really into playing “pass the baby” at this picnic! The baby was fine for a second, then realized the man cuddling her wasn’t daddy. This man is in his 50’s and has three older children.
It’s really funny how her reaction to strangers has just changed so suddenly. My son was never shy like this. He would let anyone hold him without any problem.
In a Babycenter article about Separation Anxiety, they list three ways in helping your child deal with it.
Option I
Minimize separations as much as possible and take your baby along if he seems to feel anxious. With this option, you’re basically waiting for your baby to outgrow this stage.
Option II
If you have to leave your baby — for example, to return to work — try leaving him with people who are familiar, like his father, grandmother, or aunt. Your baby may still protest, but he might adjust more easily to your absence when surrounded by well-known faces.
Option III
If you need to leave your child with someone he doesn’t know, give him a chance to get to know his caregiver while you’re still around.
Right now I am at Option I, letting her outgrow this stage. If she is like my son, who is a social butterfly, she’ll be fine in a few more months.
Does your child get anxious when separated from you?
(photo: yourfamily.org.uk)
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