Parenting coach Chris Garner gives advice on separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety can begin in the first year of a baby’s life and as your little one grows they may dip in and out of this.

Be reassured it is just a phase which may also occur during times when your little one is unwell, or there has been a change in family life such as a new sibling or moving house.

Other high-risk times can be when our children attend a new childcare setting such as nursery or school. This is quite normal and is a sign of healthy development as it shows attachment to you. With your support your children will learn how to manage these sometimes overwhelming feelings:-

- Prepare your child ahead of time.
- Explain the steps you will go through when leaving your child for the first time. Tell them stories (with them as the lead character) about staying with another family member/childminder/nursery or school.
- Make sure you have time to stay the first time to settle them into their new environment.
- Encourage your child to get involved in an activity.
- When it’s time to leave don’t be tempted to sneak away when they are busy elsewhere. This encourages anxiety and your child will spend the whole time looking for you and worrying that you are not going to return.
- Tell them where you are going and when you will return.
- Say goodbye and leave (this is the hardest thing you will ever do if your little one is clinging to you and crying!).
- When you return, spend quality time together.

Do bear in mind it might be you that has the separation anxiety as your child confidently leaves you!

www.parentandbabycoach.co.uk