Navigating Separation Anxiety in 23 Month Old Toddlers: Tips and Strategies
Separation anxiety is a common experience for many toddlers, especially around the age of 23 months. This is a developmental stage where children become more aware of their surroundings and form stronger attachments to their primary caregivers. As a result, they may experience distress and anxiety when separated from their parents or caregivers. While this is a normal part of child development, it can be challenging for both the child and the parents. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of separation anxiety in 23-month-old toddlers and provide tips and strategies to help navigate this challenging phase.
Causes of Separation Anxiety in 23 Month Old Toddlers
Understanding the underlying causes of separation anxiety can help parents better support their child during this phase. Some common reasons for separation anxiety in 23-month-old toddlers include:
1. Cognitive Development: At 23 months, children are developing a greater understanding of their environment. They may become more aware of the dangers and uncertainties of the world, leading to feelings of fear and anxiety.
2. Attachment: At this stage, toddlers have formed strong bonds with their primary caregivers. When separated from them, they may experience distress and fear of losing their attachment figure.
3. Routine Changes: Toddlers thrive on routine and predictability. Any significant changes in their routine, such as starting daycare or a new school, can trigger separation anxiety.
4. Parental Anxiety: Parents’ own anxiety about leaving their child can also contribute to their child’s separation anxiety. Children are sensitive to their parents’ emotions and can pick up on their anxiety, making it harder for them to stay calm during a separation.
Tips for Navigating Separation Anxiety
1. Prepare Your Child: Before leaving your child, it is essential to prepare them for the separation. Talk to them about where you are going, who will be taking care of them, and when you will be back. This will help your child feel more secure and reduce their anxiety.
2. Practice Separation: It is helpful to practice short separations with your child, gradually increasing the time apart. This will help your child learn that separations are temporary and that their caregiver will always come back for them.
Navigating Separation Anxiety in 23 Month Old Toddlers
3. Establish a Goodbye Ritual: Create a goodbye ritual with your child, such as a special hug or saying a special phrase. This will give your child something to look forward to and help them feel more secure when you leave.
4. Stay Calm: It is normal for parents to also experience anxiety when leaving their child. However, it is essential to remain calm and positive in front of your child. If they sense your anxiety, it can make their separation anxiety worse.
5. Make Goodbyes Quick: As tempting as it may be to linger when your child is upset, it is best to make goodbyes quick and confident. Prolonging the goodbye can make it harder for your child to settle down.
6. Leave a Comfort Item: Leave a comfort item, such as a favorite toy or blanket, with your child when you leave. This can provide them with a sense of security and familiarity.
7. Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial when navigating separation anxiety. Stick to a routine as much as possible and try to have the same caregiver take care of your child during separations.
Strategies for Coping with Separation Anxiety
1. Validate Your Child’s Feelings: It is essential to acknowledge and validate your child’s feelings of anxiety. Let them know that it is normal to feel sad or scared when separated from their parents.
2. Redirect Attention: Distracting your child with a fun activity can help ease their anxiety. This can also help them form positive associations with being away from their parents.
3. Stay in Touch: If possible, stay in touch with your child during the separation. You can call or send pictures to reassure them that you are thinking of them.
4. Seek Support: It can be challenging for parents to cope with their child’s separation anxiety. Don’t be afraid to seek support from other parents, a therapist, or a support group.
5. Be Patient: Remember that separation anxiety is a normal part of child development and will eventually pass. Be patient and continue to support your child through this phase.
In summary, separation anxiety is a normal part of toddler development, and it is essential for parents to understand the underlying causes and have strategies in place to navigate this phase. By preparing your child, establishing routines, and staying calm, you can help your child cope with separation anxiety. Remember to validate your child’s feelings and seek support if needed. With time and patience, this phase will pass, and your child will become more confident and independent.