Stranger anxiety

GalLaura

My lo is going through a real bad time with strangers. I'm a SAHM but we do at least one or two group activities everyday. We have been going to swim class for over 6 months. Today I went to the class but my dh took him in. It was a new teacher since he moved up due to age. She is in charge of the whole program. Anyway he sobbed through the whole class. He never once cried in class before. I also a have a mom friend and her son who we see everyday and be cries at them too. It's actually a little embarrassing. Even more, I want him to feel happy and comfortable in social situations. Any advice? Anyone going through this?

jmcgra06

I don't have any really specific advice, but I would talk to his pediatrician. Not because I think there is anything "wrong" with his reaction, but the pedi might have some suggestions or at least know where to refer you to. How long has it been happening?

WasNotWas

Don't be embarrassed. It's an excellent survival response our LO's are developing. The key is to make him comfortable. Even my 3 year old gets nervous initially in new situations with new people, but we just explain what is happening and make sure we address their feelings.

If Ty is nervous at drop off or with new people, I give him hugs I let the new person come up and give me a hug or him a high five. If the new person can make LO laugh the tension is cut, so even if you do the "o he's being so silly" and tickle and nuzzle his neck while he is crying it lets him know that you are here, you love him, and he can trust this new person.

GalLaura

Thanks, ladies. My dh thinks he needs to be baby sat for a few hours once a week. So I asked a friend from a job that I had here. She studied early childhood ed, is American and now in Grad school to be a primary school teacher. Anyway I trust here BUT I now have so much anxiety about it. I've only left him for a few hours with my mil not a stranger. Any advice on how to easy them in together? I'm worried about nap tap which falls during the time she will be watching.

Cricket81

My best advice would be to not put too much pressure on the nap. Encourage the sitter to follow your normal routine, but if LO isn't napping, don't let the babysitter or yourself freak out. LO can always nap when you get home. Having a stressed baby and sitter is way worse!