Limited time only!

30% off orders over $150

Use Code: GOBIG30

Free shipping on orders $50+

Track Order

Now reading: Separation Anxiety in Babies: Signs to Look For & How to Deal With It

Next

Separation Anxiety in Babies: Signs to Look For & How to Deal With It

Separation anxiety in babies: the phase where you become their personal security blanket, and leaving the room is grounds for protest. Those tearful goodbyes and clingy moments might feel overwhelming, but they’re a normal part of their emotional development. If you’re noticing separation anxiety disorder symptoms and are wondering how to deal with separation anxiety in babies, we’re here to help you navigate this phase with understanding and ease.

What Is Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in babies occurs as they begin to understand that you can leave the room—and they’re not yet certain you’ll come back. This new awareness can bring tears, clinginess, and protests whenever you step out of sight. It’s a normal developmental phase where your departure feels like the ultimate betrayal, even if it’s just to grab the laundry.

While it’s a typical phase, there are times when it can lean into separation anxiety disorder, where the worry and distress become more intense and persist longer than expected. This is your baby’s way of navigating the big emotions of attachment and independence, and though it’s tough in the moment, it’s a sign of their growing awareness and bond with you.

When Does Separation Anxiety Start in Babies?

Typically, you’ll see the first signs of baby separation anxiety around 6 to 8 months. At this stage, babies are learning that people and things still exist even when they’re out of sight. That’s when leaving the room—or even just looking like you might—can set off the waterworks. While every baby is different, this phase can peak around 10 to 18 months and usually fades by age 2.

Separation Anxiety Disorder Symptoms

Is your baby turning every goodbye into a full-blown meltdown? This might mean you’re dealing with more than just the usual clinginess and are seeing separation anxiety disorder symptoms. Babies with this condition often show extreme distress when you leave, even for short periods, and may struggle to calm down after you’re gone.

Other signs include trouble sleeping alone, fear of being left with anyone else, or clinging to you like their little life depends on it (because in their mind, it kind of does). Nearly every parent faces baby separation anxiety at some point.

Signs of Separation Anxiety in Babies at Night

Signs of separation anxiety in babies at night can turn bedtime into a full-blown standoff. If your baby suddenly refuses to go to sleep without you nearby, wakes up crying more often, or insists on being held to settle down, it’s likely baby separation anxiety at play.

Nighttime can feel extra daunting for little ones because it means a longer period without their favorite person (you!). While it’s a challenging phase, offering comfort and a consistent bedtime routine can help reassure your baby that even when you’re out of sight, you’re never far away.

How Long Does Separation Anxiety Last in Babies?

When does separation anxiety begin, and how long does it stick around? Typically, separation anxiety starts around 6 to 8 months, peaks between 10 and 18 months, and gradually fades by age 2.

While it can feel endless in the moment, it’s just a phase. As your baby grows and gains confidence, they’ll learn that goodbyes aren’t forever—and you’ll both find a new rhythm. Until then, lots of patience and reassurance can go a long way in helping your little one feel secure.

Tips on How to Deal With Separation Anxiety in Babies

Figuring out how to deal with separation anxiety in babies? Start by keeping goodbyes short and sweet—think confident waves, not tearful drama (even if you’re feeling it too). Practice short separations to ease them into the idea that you always come back.

A consistent routine can also work wonders; it gives them a sense of security in knowing what to expect. If you’re wondering how to decrease anxiety, try leaving them with a familiar caregiver or comfort item, like a favorite blanket or toy.

And when all else fails, a baby carrier like the Tushbaby can keep them close while still giving you the freedom to move through your day. Whether you’re soothing them through a tough goodbye, running errands, or they just need some extra snuggle time, the Tushbaby Hip Carrier makes carrying easier for you and more comfortable for them.

Add The Snug Attachment and go fully hands-free, transforming the Tushbaby with a soft, breathable wrap to support your baby while giving you extra mobility. With multiple carrying positions and a design that grows with your child, the Tushbaby + Snug carrier combo helps you ease their anxiety while keeping your life moving in style.

FAQs

What Age Does Separation Anxiety Peak?

Separation anxiety in toddlers typically peaks between 10 and 18 months, but it’s still common to see signs of it between 2 and 3 years old, and even later on. At this stage, their growing independence can clash with their need for reassurance. While it’s not the peak of the phase, it’s a normal part of their development—and with patience and consistency, they’ll build the confidence to handle those goodbyes more easily.

How to Manage Separation Anxiety in Adults?

Just like baby separation anxiety, maternal separation anxiety can bring on a wave of emotions when it’s time to part ways. Start by reframing the time apart—it’s not about leaving them, it’s about giving both of you a chance to grow. Keep goodbyes short and positive, and focus on the benefits of your time away, whether it’s recharging, working, or running errands that make you a more present parent.

Is it Okay to Let Baby Cry During Separation Anxiety?

A few tears during goodbyes are normal and don’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Babies use crying to process their emotions and adjust to separations. The key is to keep your goodbye short, sweet, and confident—no sneaking out or prolonged drama. While it’s tough to hear them cry, consistent reassurance and trust-building help them learn that you’ll always come back.

How to Stop Anxiety Crying?

If you’re looking for a way to soothe the tears, a pacifier can be a lifesaver, offering comfort and a sense of security when they need it most. Keep one handy with the Pod by Tushbaby—a sleek, easy-to-clean case that clips right onto your carrier or bag, so you’re always prepared for those emotional moments. It’s the perfect way to bring a little calm to both you and your baby.

Separation anxiety in babies is tough—but with patience, consistency, and a little help from tools designed to make parenting easier, you and your baby can navigate this phase together.

Discover how Tushbaby can simplify your parenting journey while keeping your little one feeling safe and secure!