Are you finding that your baby has become extra clingy, resisting their sleep, or waking more frequently overnight? 😫🆘
This could be due to separation anxiety, which typically begins to develop around 8 months of age 👶🏻. This is when your baby learns object permanence and realises that you can leave the room and go somewhere without them, which can make them feel overwhelmed or anxious 😥. Separation anxiety often peaks again around 12 and 18 months ⚠️
Tips to help ease separation anxiety:
🧸 Introduce at least* two comforters - Having a few comforters helps your baby to find them easily in the dark and ensures a back-up if one ever gets misplaced! 🆘
🧸 Spend time in your baby’s room during their awake time to prevent them from solely associating their bedroom with sleep, which can lead to bedtime resistance 😬
🧸 Place toys in their cot to play with during their awake time 🪇🥁🧩
🧸 If they have a sibling, allow them to join them in their cot for playtime 👶🏻👶🏻
🧸 Play peek-a-boo 🫣 and practice small durations of being out of sight, making the experience more fun and playful ✨
With that said, if you are struggling with your baby’s sleep and they aren’t consolidating any of their naps, please reach out and book a consultation via www.settletosleep.com.au so we can support you in restoring sleep for you and your family 🩷🌸💫