DefinitionBy Mayo Clinic staff You used to leave your baby with
loved ones or other trusted child care providers with a kiss on
the cheek and a quick wave goodbye. Separation anxiety seemed to
be a problem only for other kids. Now, however, your goodbyes
trigger tears. What's going on? Between ages 8 and 12 months,
children often experience a period of separation anxiety.
Frustrating as it may be, separation anxiety is actually an
emotional milestone. Your child is beginning to understand that
there's only one of you — and you still exist even when you
aren't in sight. This can trigger tears when you leave the room
or clingy behavior when you attempt to say goodbye. Separation
anxiety usually fades by age 24 months. In the meantime, say
goodbye gently and reassure your child that you'll return soon.
Separation anxiety rarely requires medical treatment. -
Parenting corner Q&A: Separation anxiety. American Academy of
Pediatrics.
http://www.aap.org/publiced/BK0_SeparationAnxiety.htm. Accessed
April 26, 2012. - M