Separation Anxiety in Toddlers
Separation anxiety is a common issue in the early years. A baby will begin to be aware of you leaving a room or not being close by at around 7-8 months. After their first birthday the fear of separation can increase and your toddler can become even clingier. By three years of age your child will not need the reassurance of having you close by all the time. All children are different and some children will need the comfort of having their parents close by more than others.
How to help
- When you first leave your child with another carer, make this for a short period of time.
- Talk to your child. If you are leaving them at nursery, playgroup or with another carer; then tell them when you are leaving them and when you will be back.
- Once you have told them you are going, make a swift exit. More often than not tears will stop once you have left. If you dawdle then it will prolong the upset.
- Never sneak out without telling them you are going. This will increase their fear of you leaving them.
- Stay calm, no matter how frustrating or unreasonable their behaviour may appear. Be patient.
- If your child wakes in the night for reassurance, don’t speak or make eye contact. Settle them back down in their cot or bed and leave the room.
