DEALING WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY
Does your toddler get upset when you try to leave or whenever you are no longer in sight? Chances are he or she is experiencing separation anxiety (also known as separation protest). Separation anxiety usually starts around nine months of age, peaks near 15 months of age, and starts to fade sometime before the third birthday. It begins around the same time that babies develop a sense of "object permanence." This means they are learning that things and people exist even when they can't see them. Unfortunately, at this same stage, children don't understand the concept of time so they get upset because they don't know if or when you'll come back. Even though separation anxiety is perfectly normal, it can be upsetting for both parents and children. There are things you can do to help your child (and yourself) through this challenging time: Be calm and strong when you leave. If your child gets upset, act confident and stay calm even when you don't...