By the time a child starts to recognize their parents, they start to develop a special bond. Children in nature are seeking their parents care and even a short period of separation makes the child feel afraid and insecure.
This is what we call separation anxiety and this is commonly seen in children. According to an article from Parenting, separation anxiety can resurface at later years when children start to go to school which is a big problem for parents.
In the early stage of separation anxiety, babies reaching 8 months old starts to develop this kind of anxiety when separated from mom and dad. It may take a year or two before they understand that it's just a temporary separation and not an abandonment for good.
To get through this, the parents need to start as early as possible by the time their baby starts to develop the separation anxiety. Parents can try to give their baby some play time with other family members at home or to their babysitters so that they don't get to clingy with Mom and Dad.
When saying goodbye to your baby, just keep it short. The longer you say your goodbyes, the baby becomes more worried
When you are about to go after saying goodbye to your baby, have your baby's attention diverted with the help of the babysitter or whoever is with the baby.
In toddler years, separation anxiety is harder to overcome. As children grow, the bond they developed with their parents become stronger. According to a child psychologist, Sara Abbot, "It can be extremely exhausting for the parents because it starts to interfere with life in other ways."
Before you leave, try to give your toddler a task to do to divert their attention. They won't keep on thinking that you are leaving if they are busy doing something.
Tell your toddler an idea when you will be back. You can try to tell them that you will be back later after snack time or play time. They get an assurance that they will see you again.
Try to develop a goodbye ritual with you toddler. One best example is a kiss goodbye. You can also try some hand gestures like high five.
