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Toddlers: 24 Months+
beckslea
member
Toddler Separation Anxiety?
beckslea
member
Hi ladies, sorry I am new to this Board but we are having a problem with our toddler that I'm hoping some of you might be able to relate to. Her Separation Anxiety peaked probably around 18 months (right before her sister was born) but we've still been having episodes off and on for the 6 months since her sister's birth.
Recently, bedtimes are hard every night and end in her screaming and crying to sleep. Daycare drop-off's are hard and often result in screaming fits because she doesn't want me to leave. I've read that it's important to be supportive and try to spend extra time with her but it just isn't always possible during the workweek especially the evenings when DH isn't home. Any suggestions at all would be appreciated 
. ETA-She is 25 months.
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Re: Toddler Separation Anxiety?
my older daughter had very bad separation anxiety and still does. I actually suffer from intense adult separation anxiety. The main thing is not to lose your patience (not saying you do) and just reassure her that you will be back. Me and my daughter's teacher just assure her that "mommy always comes back" I know, don't make absolute promises, but in this case I say do it.
They deal in a world of absolutes so its important that they know you are coming back. she is somewhat young but even sending a special lovey (if her school allows) that she can love on when she gets upset. For my older daughter I put a picture of us together in her backpack.
Things like that. Routine and just reassuring are really the only tools that you have. Listen I cry for three days when my parents leave to this day, and im alright
Good luck. I just know from dealing with it myself it is such an intense feeling that is horrible so hugs, kisses and reassurance are key.
Talk to her about daycare in the evening when she is calm and not worried about it. Remind her you always come back. Tell her about the fun things she will do the next at daycare. Before you leave for daycare do the same thing. We had to give DS1 a set number of hugs and kisses and I was leaving no matter what. We also read "The kissing Hand". He got a heart for a few weeks on his shirt or hand. DS2 has problems every few months. I give him a set number of hugs and kisses too and I leave. I usually make sure to hand him right off to a teacher so they can hug him.