Resources for New Moms
Stranger Anxiety
Q:
When does stranger anxiety typically start?
8-12 months
Correct!
When babies are between 8-12 months old, they gain more independence but become more uncertain about being separated from a parent. This is when separation anxiety, also called "stranger anxiety," develops.
4-7 months
Incorrect!
When babies are between 8-12 months old, they gain more independence but become more uncertain about being separated from a parent. This is when separation anxiety, also called "stranger anxiety," develops.
Tips for making the stranger anxiety phase a little easier:
- Try not to start daycare or childcare with an unfamiliar person when your baby is 8-12 months old. Also, try not to leave when your child is tired, hungry, or restless.
- Practice being apart from each other and introduce new people and places slowly. If you’re planning to leave your child with a relative or a new babysitter, invite that person over ahead of time so they can spend time together while you’re in the room.
- If your child is starting at a new daycare center, make a few visits together before a full-time schedule begins.
- Be calm and consistent. Tell your baby that you will be back. Give your baby full attention when you say goodbye. When you say you’re leaving, mean it; coming back will only make things worse.
- It’s important to make sure that you return when you have promised to. This helps your baby know they can make it through the time apart.
- As hard as it may be to leave a child who’s screaming and crying, it’s important to have confidence that the person taking care of your baby can handle it. It may help both of you to set up a time that you will call to check in, maybe 15 to 20 minutes after you leave.
