Around six months old until about a year (but possibly longer), some children experience separation anxiety. Essentially, your baby understands that you still exist when he can’t see you (because of his new understanding of object permanence), but wants you with him, which makes him upset.

Separation anxiety can come in varying intensities. Some babies get upset when you leave for a few hours. Some can become upset the moment you leave the room. Each baby is different, so you’ll have to handle your case in your own way, but here are some tips that might help.

1. Accept that anxiety is real – Your child isn’t spoiled because he whines when mom or dad leave the room. Don’t feel like you’re being manipulated.

2. Maintain a routine – Routines are important for babies. It’s good to introduce your child to new concepts, but do so on a measured basis. For example, spending time away from mom and dad is healthy, but keep something familiar nearby, like a sibling or favorite blanket.

3. Stay positive – Keep a positive attitude about the times when your child is away from you. Talk about how great it will be to go to grandma and grandpa’s house, or how much fun he’ll have at the zoo with aunt and uncle.

4. Make sure to say goodbye – You aren’t helping by sneaking out the back door when your child is enthralled by a toy. Your child will feel like you abandoned him. Make sure to say goodbye, but leave right after.

5. Practice first – Before you leave your baby with grandma for a week, practice a few trial runs that only last a couple hours. The idea is to get your baby used to the idea that when you go away, you’ll eventually return.

6. Stay in touch – So that your child doesn’t feel abandoned, you can stay in touch by 1) leaving an object behind so he remembers you (maybe a picture or a recording of your voice), and 2) contacting him regularly to reassure him that you haven’t disappeared.

7. Prepare for regression – Some kids go through odd changes when mom or dad returns after a while. They regress a bit and might start sucking their thumb, potty accidents, or speaking with baby talk (when you know they know the words). These are completely normal and will pass.

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for asubluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.

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