Episode 53 - Separation Anxiety in babes 7 - 9 months

The podcast episode discusses the challenges that parents face when trying to put their babies down to sleep, particularly on days when everything seems to be going wrong. Regular first time mum on the show, Cass, joins Meg to talk about Max’s week. He’s 29 weeks and showing signs of separation anxiety. Meg and Cass chat through a few factors that contribute to changes in sleep patterns, such as the babies picking up on the parents' stress and the possibility of the babies not feeling well or experiencing separation anxiety. Meg explains that babies typically start experiencing separation anxiety between seven and nine months of age. When babies become more mobile and independent, they begin to understand that they are separate individuals from their parents and caregivers and may become fearful or anxious when they are left alone. This can lead to sleep disturbances, clingy behaviour, crying or tantrums when their caregiver attempts to leave and irritability for both the baby and the parents. Meg explains that it's important for parents to understand that this is a normal developmental phase and to provide reassurance and comfort to their babies during this time. She suggests gradually introducing small separations and comforting routines can help babies learn to feel secure even when their mum or dad is not present. The mums then go on to talk about Max’s weaning journey, some of the delicious recipes on the Parent Sense app and how solids have impacted Max’s sleep routine. Listen for more insights if you’re wrestling with separation anxiety with your little one.