Separation anxiety is a part of a child’s social-emotional development. At age 6-8 months, children may start to realize that they are separate from their parents and begin to start missing them. Children’s anxiety about being separated from parents may peak between ages 10-18 months, yet for some children this anxiety may continue into their third year.
Parents also may experience anxiety when leaving their child. This too, is a part of parenting.
Separation anxiety is something parents can prepare for. On the reverse side are tips to assist with preparing for this situation.
- If your child is in the care of someone else, make sure the caregiver is trustworthy and knowledgeable
- Prepare your child for the transition to another’s care – make sure your child has familiar items in his new environment (i.e. favorite blanket, food they like, etc.)
- Talk to her about what is going to happen. Use words appropriate for her age and speak calmly
- Maintain open communication with your child’s caregiver. Ask about his day when you pick up your child.
- Know that if your child cries when you leave this does not mean your child doesn’t like his caregiver, rather it means they miss you, their parent