More than likely your child does not have stranger anxiety but rather separation anxiety. Around 12 18 months of age most babies become very upset at the idea of being separated from their parents. The result is a temper tantrum, screaming, yelling, and feelings of abandonment. Many parents take this behavior as stranger anxiety because it occurs when the baby is being left at daycare or with another individual who is not as close to the child as the parents are.

All babies go through separation anxiety at some point or other. It is very normal and your child may experience these feelings when he is in his own room next door to mom and dad or else these feelings may surface when he is being left. Each child is different and their reactions are as well. You simply need to take it one day at a time. However, there are some ways you can cope to try and get past this stage.

Tip #1 Dont Leave Your Baby
You may think this sounds impossible, and it probably is for parents in todays society. However, you can minimize separations. Take your baby everywhere that is feasibly possible and only leave him when there is no other option. When you choose this option it means your baby will have fewer events to feel upset with and will trust you to be there for him.

Tip #2 Leave Baby With Family
In the event you must leave your baby, to go back to work for example, try and leave him with a familiar face. This might be an aunt, grandmother, close family friend, or even his dad. Separation anxiety is difficult to deal with, but many times if baby is left with someone familiar it is a lot easier to deal with.

Tip #3 Take the Time to Meet the Caregiver
In many situations the baby must be left with a stranger or else someone who is not all that familiar to the baby. If you find this to be your only option then set up a day or two when you, baby, and the caregiver get together. Doing this two days in a row and then leaving baby on the third day might be the best option. The reason you want to do this is to allow your baby to get to know the caregiver before you leave him with her. This can make separations a little easier although they may be a challenge for some time.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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