Separation Anxiety in 8 Month Old? - Loganville,GA

Hi A.,
Your daughter is right on time. It is developmental that babies get separation anxiety at around 8 mos. This is because they are at the very beginning of realizing that both of you are separate. They fear you disappearing completely. What I suggest is to put her down to play and go in and out of the room before she can cry. That will reinforce that you are coming back. It will also reinforce that you come back in the room when she is not crying. If you have someone to help; ask them to occasionally distract her with fun stuff while you leave the room. Go for short times and increase it slowly. And in everyday life promptly respond to cries. This shows her that you will meet her needs. Some people believe in letting children cry "to get over it", I don't believe in that, children are young only once and I think it sends a better message to meet their needs. They then become secure and believe that life is a good place. Good Luck! And much love.
A.

It's just normal separation anxiety. for most kds, it doesn't last long but reappears for a bit on occasion. The hide and seek suggestion was a great one. Eventually, she'll realize that when you leave, you'll always come back and will stop feeling so afraid. It's a trying time for you, I know, but handle it with grace and it will go away faster! good luck!

A., I think she may just be going through a stage--becoming more aware of what's going on around her. So this is a sign of maturity! I'm not a mom, but I do teach Kindermusik classes for babies in Dalton; and every one of the children is unique. In a Kindermusik class we do activities that nurture growth in all areas of development (including security/self confidence), and parents get lots of info about child development too. You will both enjoy the one-on-one bonding time provided by the class. Check it out at www.kindermusikwithsherry.com.

She is a normal 8 month old that loves her mama! I went through this with my oldest 2 and am expecting to face it in a month or so with my 7 month old. Especially if you stay at home with them this will happen. They know the smell of there mother and when your around. Just reassure her that your there. Remember there only little once and someday you'll wish they'd cry for you. Enjoy her :)
H.

Yep, sounds like classic seperation anxiety. It will be a learning phase for her to understand that just because she can't see you, you are still there in a way, just in another room. And also for her to learn that you come back as well. Just leave her be and she'll get through it fast enough other wise if you play into it with too much cuddling or never leaving her sight, it will be a huge nightmare of a fit when you have to leave the house even to go to the mailbox!

Good luck!
S.