How to Ease Separation Anxiety For an Infant.

Rate: (1 Ratings)

As a parent we all know the scenario. You have to start back at work after being on maturity leave, or you need a babysitter to watch the baby for a couple of hours so that you can get errands done, or go to the doctor. You hand your little bundle of joy over to the care-giver and the baby immediately starts to cry. You wish you could pick your baby back up into the safety of your arms but you know that you have to leave. You walk away heart-wrenched with tears in your eyes. How do I ease my infant's separation anxiety?

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Most importantly realize that separation anxiety is a normal part of development for not only your infant but you as well.

Step2

Most likely, as soon as you leave the room the newborn will quiet down. When babies are only a couple of months old they love to be held regardless of the person. The soothing of the care-givers heart beat and warmth of her body will provide comfort to your baby even when you are not there.

Step3

However, for older infants (7 - 18 months) they may have already noticed that they are a separate entity from you. They no longer feel that they are part of your body but began to realize their body is their own. The moment that you leave the room they become fearful. I would hope by this age that you have an established caregiver or family member that your baby is comfortable with. He or she will still be nervous about you leaving but your baby will have established a routine of you leaving but always coming back.

Step4

If you have to leave your infant with someone for the first time make sure to go early and spend time with your baby and your baby's caregiver. This will give your infant time to adjust to a new environment and new caregiver with the safety of you right there. Spending time with the caregiver will help to alleviate your fears as well as your infants.

Step5

Lastly, remember when it is time to go give your infant a kiss and head for the door. If you make a big production of leaving and coming back, every time your baby cries, you will never get out the door. Be consistent and develop a routine for leaving, it will make it that much easier for your infant.