04/09/2022
Separating Anxiety: What It is and How to Deal with it?
What are the signs:-
In case of separation anxiety, your baby may have the fear that when you leave, you will not return. This fear may manifest as symptoms such as :
1. Crying when you leave
2. Needing someone to stay with them till they fall asleep
3. Waking up and crying in the night after having slept well earlier
4. Crying when you leave them with someone else
5. Crying or Clinging in new situations
6.Difficulty in sleeping
7. Waking Early
If your baby is inconsolable for a long time after you leave them, the anxiety has been going on for more than a few weeks or if the baby is under too much distress, you may need to consult your doctor.
Tips for dealing with separation anxiety:-
* Practice being apart:- Begin with being apart for short durations, such as when you rush to the grocery shop. Leave them with someone they are familiar with so that they are comfortable. You can then gradually increase the duration of being away and leave them in a less familiar environment.
* Stay Positive:- When you are about to leave your baby, do not show any uneasiness as your baby can feel it. Be confident and positive. Your baby will experience and learn the pattern of saying goodbye and then having a happy reunion.
* Explain a time in the way your child understands:-
your child will not know what you mean when you tell them that you will return by 5 0'clock. Instead, tell them that you will return after nap time or at snack time and stick to your promise.
* Quick Goodbye:-
Whatever goodbye routine at the same time each day when you leave and avoid variations,so your baby knows what to expect and builds trust in you and his/ her independence.
*Feed the baby:-
Separation anxiety is worse when the baby is hungry and sleepy. Letting your baby nap and feeding them before you leave will help.
* Night Awakening:-
Some Babies have night awakenings due to separation anxiety. If your baby wakes up in the night, do not take your baby out of bed but calm them down by patting and soothing them.
SUSMITA PAL
EDUCATION CONSULTANT
PRINCIPAL OF ROYAL KINGSLAND PRESCHOOL