Care and Feeding | Slate's parenting show cover image

Care and Feeding | Slate's parenting show

Does My Baby Have Separation Anxiety?

Mar 17, 2025
Dive into the world of separation anxiety as experts tackle a listener's concern about her 7-month-old's discomfort with strangers. They offer practical strategies to ease anxiety, emphasizing that it’s a common developmental phase. The discussion also touches on navigating parenting challenges, from timely sitters at weddings to the humor in pre-teen dynamics. Plus, hear personal check-ins and insights on balancing publishing excitement with parenting realities. A thoughtful blend of parenting wisdom awaits!
32:11

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Separation anxiety is a normal developmental phase, indicating healthy attachment, with strategies like short goodbyes and comforting items helping ease transitions.
  • Engaging older siblings in supporting younger ones enhances bonding but requires balancing their energy during routine activities to maintain structure.

Deep dives

Understanding Separation Anxiety in Infants

Separation anxiety is a common developmental stage for infants, particularly between six to nine months. During this period, babies become acutely aware of their parents' presence and can experience distress when separated. It is normal for an infant to cry when handed over to a caregiver, indicating a strong attachment to their parents, which is positive for emotional development. Parents are encouraged to continue facilitating these interactions, as the discomfort felt by their child is often more stressful for them than for the baby, highlighting the natural attachment formation.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode