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  Age Groups > Preschool > Connecting

Toddler Separation Anxiety

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There is a new intellectual skill that toddlers develop at a very early age – it’s called object permanence. They will begin remembering specific objects and people and even search for certain things (like toys) which have gone out of sight. The acquisition of this skill almost simultaneously signals the development of toddler separation anxiety- which is an anxiety for the loss of an object.

This is a common emotional and developmental phase that all toddlers will experience. Here are some of the symptoms:
  • An intense fear of harm to parents
  • An unwillingness to separate from parents
  • Increased anxiety at signs of parental departure
  • Crying at the time of separation
This condition is usually takes place in the second half of the first year, and lasts for about 2 to 4 months.

Here are some suggestions which might help you and your children adjust the time spent away from each other:
  1. Don’t sneak away – children will get even more worried when you do this
  2. Get your children a transitional object – i.e. a security blanket to ease their anxiety
  3. Get them involved in activities – keep your children occupied with fun when you leave
  4. Leave on a bright note – don’t fret; respond with smiles, big hugs, and a happy good-bye
  5. Time it right – don’t leave your children when they are likely to be tired, hungry, or restless
Understanding what your child is going through and having a few coping strategies in reserve can go a long way toward helping both of you get through it.
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