Practical ways to ease separation anxiety at eight months
By the time your baby is eight months old, you many need to leave them with secondary caregivers quite regularly. Here are some practical ways to ease separation anxiety and make the drop-off process easier on both of you.
Allow them to become familiar with a range of caregivers
Essie de Jager, a trained early-childhood teaching professional and passionate caregiver at Tjokkertuin Childcare Centre in Malmesbury, suggests that parents allow their babies to become accustomed to being looked for by a variety of trusted caregivers throughout their infancy.
“It can be very difficult to trust someone with your baby at such a young age, so it helps to start with a grandparent or trusted family friend who has experience in caring for babies and infants. You can also start slowly, only leaving them for half an hour at a time while you do the shopping, etc. This allows your baby to get used to the idea of being taken care of by someone other than yourself,” recommends Essie.
Announce your departure
“Always say goodbye before leaving and tell your baby where you're going and when you'll be back, even if you think they are too young to understand. Don't just disappear, this will upset your child even more,” suggests Essie.
Avoid doubling back
Separation anxiety is often just as real for the parent as it is for the child. However, Essie says parents should resist the temptation of returning for one last kiss or to check whether their baby is okay after they’ve announced their departure.
“Once you said goodbye, leave. Don't turn back to the class or house to check on your baby, this will only prolong their anxious episode,” she explains.
Allow some time for introductions
Essie suggests that parents organise their schedule to allow for an initial ‘warming up’ period when their baby is introduced to a new caregiver for the first time.
“When leaving your child with someone new for the first time, ask them to arrive at least half an hour before you are due to depart so there is some time for them to engage with your baby. This allows them to get to know one another before you leave, which helps to ease anxiety,” she recommends.
Keep your emotions under control
Many parents feel quite emotional when they drop off their baby for the first time. Essie cautions that although emotions may be running high, adults should take care not to cry or show signs of upset in front of their child. “Keep it light where you baby can see you; wait until you’re out of line of sight before allowing yourself a good cry,” she advises.
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