Tips for Easing Toddler Separation Anxiety

Whether you are a stay-at-home parent who is just trying to have an afternoon to yourself or a working parent dropping your child off at daycare, there is a chance you will at least encounter toddler separation anxiety at some point. Here are a few tips for making this normal part of childhood emotional development a little easier on both you and your toddler.

Make Your Intentions Known. Telling your toddler before you leave what your intentions are can actually help ease toddler separation anxiety. By keeping the separation from being a surprise your child can actually feel more comfortable with the process. Also remind your child that you are not leaving forever and that you will be back very soon.

Familiar Object. If you are dropping your child off at a new babysitter's place or daycare, consider bringing along a familiar object. This can be a blanket, pillow, stuffed animal, favorite toy, or even a favorite sippy cup. Give your child the option of selecting the item that will make him or her most comfortable in your absence. (The process of helping your child select the familiar object to take with them goes in hand with verbally announcing your intentions to leave their presence.)

Introduce Your Child to New Settings. If the daycare setting or babysitter is new, plan on taking extra time to help introduce your child to the new setting. At daycares or preschools, take time with the teachers or aids to show the child toys in the room. With a new babysitter, take time to participate in an activity such as reading a short story together. By showing your child you trust the person you are leaving them with, you are helping them be calm when you leave.

Be Positive. More than likely, your child will cry or throw a tantrum when you finally do start to leave them. The best response to this is to ignore the negative behavior. Do not get frustrated or scold the child, as this will just make the problem worse. Offer a smile, a hug, and a friendly goodbye. By making the process a positive one on your end, you are actually helping your toddler realize your absence is a good thing and not a negative one.

Remember, as tough as toddler separation anxiety is, it is just a phase. It will pass and soon enough your child will be just fine knowing you will come right back.