Infant Separation Anxiety: Gentle Ways to Ease Goodbyes

Practice leaving your baby with a trusted caregiver for a few minutes, then gradually try longer separations as they become more comfortable. Before you go, use the same simple goodbye each time—perhaps a hug and “I’ll be back after your nap”—and leave calmly rather than slipping away without warning.

When possible, give your baby time to get to know a caregiver while you are still nearby, so your departure is not their first experience together. You can also explain your baby’s usual feeding, sleep, and soothing routines to the caregiver; if your baby is old enough for a comfort object, follow safe-sleep guidance and keep loose items out of the crib.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating make the handoff feel familiar.

A baby who is hungry, overtired, or unwell may have a harder time with a goodbye, so try to plan separations after a feeding or rest when you can. If your baby cries, the caregiver can offer calm attention and a familiar activity, while you keep your departure brief instead of returning repeatedly for another goodbye.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating choose a good moment to leave.

Some babies settle soon after you leave, while others need more time and gentler practice; ask the caregiver what happens after the handoff so you can adjust the routine. If distress is intense, persists well beyond the separation, or comes with concerns about feeding, sleep, or development, talk with your pediatrician rather than trying to push through it alone.

For more ideas as your child grows, we cover calm goodbyes and secure attachment in our toddler separation anxiety guide. Our featured parenting eBook, A Gentle Guide to Toddler Separation Anxiety – Calm Goodbyes, Secure Attachment & How to Manage Toddler Separation Anxiety, focuses on the toddler stage rather than infant-specific care.

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