About this topic
Some children get very upset when a parent or caregiver leaves. This may also happen if you leave your childs line of sight. This is separation anxiety. It is common for older infants and toddlers. Young children can also have this problem when starting school or going to daycare for the first time. Your child may become very clingy. Your child may refuse to go to a new place or meet new people. For some children, this worry and fear last into elementary school. For others, it lasts only a short time. ‚
What are the causes?
Separation anxiety is a normal part of growing up. A child is starting to learn that a parent or caregiver will leave and come back. ‚
What are the main signs?
Infant and toddlers: ‚
- Very upset when apart from the parents or caregiver
- Will only go to sleep with the parent or caregiver is nearby
- Holds on to the parent or caregiver tight, clingy
- Temper tantrums
Young or school-age child: ‚
- Worries that something bad will happen to parent or caregiver if the child leaves
- Headaches
- Upset stomach
- Nightmares
- Bedwetting
- Tantrums
- Not willing to go to school
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your childs doctor will take your child's history and do an exam. The doctor will ask about your child's signs and how long they have been going on. The doctor will talk with older children to learn more about their feelings. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Normal separation anxiety does not need formal treatment. You will get tips on how to handle the behavior to lessen the anxiety. If you think the behavior is not getting better, talk with your doctor. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Here are ways you can help your child with separation anxiety: ‚
- Practice saying goodbye. Practice with your child by waving goodbye or blowing a kiss through the window.
- Start by leaving your child with a caregiver or nanny for short times.
- Do not sneak away from your child.
- Start new caregivers slowly. Let your child get to know the caregiver before you leave your child alone with them. Try not to change caregivers often.
- Bring a well-known object, like a toy or teddy bear, when going to a new place.
- Talk to your child about the first day of school. Read books and tell what will happen. Promise your child there will be someone to help them.
- Walk your child to the classroom on the first day.
- Stay calm and consistent.
- Be honest with your child.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry ‚
http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/children_who_wont_go_to_school_separation_anxiety ‚
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/Pages/Soothing-Your-Childs-Separation-Anxiety.aspx ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/sep_anxiety.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚