Although separation anxiety might be common in babies and toddlers, some parents may be surprised to learn that it can continue well past their son or daughter's kindergarten years. The truth is that some children are simply more susceptible to the fear of being away from those who introduced them to the world. If your little one shows signs of this at a late age, there are several things you can do to quell the symptoms.
Try, try again. If it makes things easier, you should view separation anxiety as a football strategy – practice makes perfect. Leave your child with a babysitter you can rely on and evaluate the outcome. After some time, you're likely to see some improvement.
Don't emphasize the fact that you're leaving. Although it might be amusing for both of you to make funny faces and tell a few jokes before you leave the house, this might only lead your young one to miss you even more. Give your kid a simple hug and make a continuous ritual out of it every day.
Stay firm to your duties. It's tough for the little ones to comprehend the idea that you're filling their bellies by going to work. If they complain and whine a little as you're making your exit, don't succumb to their behavior. Instead, confirm to them that everything will be all right.