how to deal with separation anxiety in babies

Babies love to be surrounded by their loved ones. Kids feel loved and protected in the company of their parents. Most kids just hate being left alone. Some babies freak out when left alone or in the presence of unknown faces. You will find most babies unmanageable and cranky in the absence of their parents, a condition known as Separation Anxiety. A majority of the toddlers, especially those having working parents (others may be equally affected), suffer from separation anxiety. In extreme cases, the kids will not let their parents, particularly mother, out of their sight even for a moment. 

Behavioral changes such as mood swings, incessant crying, sucking the thumb or chewing the hair may be common in kids with separation anxiety. Some kids may refuse to eat anything and remain gloomy when separated from their parents. The situation though tricky can be well managed. The following tips will, in fact, make the struggle a lot easier for parents who have to deal with separation anxiety in their kids. 

Do not rush into things

Give your baby the time to adjust. Don’t suddenly leave your child under the care of a babysitter. Give your child the time to get used to a new person. Once the comfort level is there, your child will stay a lot happier and cheerful, even in your absence. Be careful with your choice of the babysitter. Go for experienced professionals who know how to keep the child happy.

Choose family and loved ones over creche

There can be no substitute for a family. Your child will stay happier in the company of loved ones (grandparents, uncles, aunties, cousins). If the possibility is there, refrain from putting your baby (particularly, if the baby is less than a year old) in a creche.

A day out with your baby

Professional commitments may keep you busy for the most part of the week. Make sure you spend the weekend with the baby. You can plan a family day out with the baby (to a beach, some amusement parks or resorts). You can also plan short family vacations. In addition to spending quality time with your tiny tots, these short trips will also help to rejuvenate and refresh you to the hilt.

Keep the child out of negativity

For babies with separation anxiety, it is important to keep their immediate environment positive and cheerful. Fights and arguments may have a negative effect on the kid who is already struggling with separation anxiety.

Don’t miss out on a goodbye kiss

While leaving the house, make sure that you cuddle the baby or bid them goodbye. They should be aware of your absence. Some child psychologists say that sneaking out secretly without the notice of your child may not be a healthy practice. Your child may get teary and upset seeing you leave, but will soon learn to adjust. Leaving the house without informing the kid may make them even more insecure and anxious.

Play with your child

You can indulge in games such as “hide and seek” or “peekaboo” with the kid. These games are a fun way to make the kid understand that your absence is temporary and you will be back sooner or later.