Suddenly he’s apprehensive about strangers! And even some family members. What changed? This is actually a sign of healthy development. He is learning that he is independent of you. While this is an exciting cognitive milestone because he now understands the difference between you and a stranger, it can also bring some tears.
She has spent the last six months identifying with you and now that she is more aware of her environment and the people that come in and out of it, she has a new apprehension about anyone that isn’t you.
Some tips to help get through this phase:
- Lead by example. If you are friendly and welcoming to the new person, your baby will observe this and follow your cues.
- Try not to draw out a long departure. Say goodbye, then head out the door.
- Resist the urge to sneak out. While sneaking out might be tempting because you don’t have to deal with the tears, it erodes your baby’s trust.
- Have friends or family members approach your baby slowly and even interact with your baby for a few minutes while you hold her, then hand her over.
References:
Aamodt, S. & Wang, S. (2011). Welcome to Your Child’s Brain: How the Mind Grows from Conception to College. Bloomsbury, NY.
Leach, P. (1997). Your Baby & Child. Random House.