Separation/stranger anxiety

Question

My 7 month old is currently facing separation/stranger anxiety!! Now she can’t see me walk away or she can’t be passed to stranger eventho she has been gg to ifc since 4 month old. She wasn’t like this back then. Recently the teachers feedback that she’s rather cranky at sch cause she doesnt want unfamiliar faces around. Is this normal? Is this a phase?

Sabrina Florentina · Answer

Yes, totally normal lah! My girl went through the exact same thing around that age, and her infant care teachers said it's actually a developmental milestone - means she's understanding object permanence and has formed secure attachments, which is a good thing. It usually peaks between 6 to 9 months and then gradually gets better, especially if you keep the routine consistent and don't make a big fuss when you leave (I know easier said than done). The crankiness at school should settle down as she gets more used to the environment again, but it can take a few weeks. Just keep reassuring her when you pick her up and try not to sneak away - a calm goodbye actually helps more than you'd think.