EPISODE · Jun 19, 2025 · 21 MIN
Separation Anxiety or Normal Maternal Biology?
from The Responsive Family Sleep Podcast
When is it parental separation anxiety and when is it simply normal biology? In a culture that values separation and independence, where is the line between a parent’s instinct that they and their baby aren’t ready to be separated around nighttime sleep verses anxiety around separation. In this episode I’m unpacking this complicated topic. I discuss some important cultural and historical context that shapes how we think about separation between parent and baby. I also talk through context that matters such as the parent’s preferences, the likely stress level of baby, familiarity with other caregivers, and other signs of anxiety. It’s not ok for a parent to feel pressure to be away from their baby or toddler overnight before they are ready, but it’s also good to support anxiety if that is the driving factor. Connect with Kim Grab the free guide busting common sleep myths and learn more about working with Kim: https://intuitiveparentingdc.com/Instagram: instagram.com/intuitive_parenting_dcFacebook: facebook.com/intuitiveparentingdc
What this episode covers
When is it parental separation anxiety and when is it simply normal biology? In a culture that values separation and independence, where is the line between a parent’s instinct that they and their baby aren’t ready to be separated around nighttime sleep verses anxiety around separation. In this episode I’m unpacking this complicated topic. I discuss some important cultural and historical context that shapes how we think about separation between parent and baby. I also talk through conte...
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Separation Anxiety or Normal Maternal Biology?
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