Stranger anxiety is a common reaction in babies. You might notice your baby becoming cranky and uncomfortable around strangers, whether they are distant relatives or strangers. This is normal intellectual development.
What is Stranger Anxiety?
Stranger anxiety is an emotional reaction or phase when an unknown person approaches your child. Your baby may be afraid or clingy, similar to separation anxiety. Your baby will have realized that you are essential to them by this point.
Although strange anxiety is usually resolved independently, it can still occur in toddlers as young as two.
Some research shows that babies who experience fear increases between 6 and 36 months of age are more likely than others to develop anxiety symptoms by the age of 8. This is a normal developmental stage. You can’t remove your baby from anxiety, but there are ways you can help them cope with it. This will allow them to feel more at ease around people they rarely see.
You can help your baby with this phase by showing patience and encouraging them. Here are five things you can do.
Reassure them
If your baby is showing signs of fear or anxiety, encourage them and reassure them. This will help them feel more comfortable around distant relatives and strangers. This support will take patience, as stranger anxiety changes won’t occur immediately. However, it may happen sooner with this reassurance.
Stay Near By and Stay Calm
To ensure your toddler feels safe and secure around strangers, it is a good idea to be there for them. As they adjust to the stranger or new environment, show your baby affection. Your baby will feel secure around new people if you provide comfort.
Send The ‘Stranger’ A Heads-Up
Tell a friend or relative that your baby is in a developmental stage. Your baby may be uneasy around new people. This will help to avoid others.