Dealing with Baby’s Stranger Anxiety
Babies have their own self-protective measures and one of them is stranger anxiety. This can start as early as three months until your child turns a year old. By then, your child will have learned
how to handle new faces.
Don’t underestimate the intelligence of babies. They learn by observing people. They have the basic understanding of human interaction so they know how to read body language and voices. When you greet a friend or relative who’s new to your baby, do so with a handshake, a hug, or kiss – any gesture which would signal that this person is accepted by Mom or Dad.
Talk to your kid. Introduce him or her to the new person. Remind your child where you last see the person.
Never leave your baby feeling vulnerable in places where there are a lot of strange faces – especially in public. Always stay in your child’s view and comfort your baby when he or she seems to be anxious.
If your kid refuses to be held or kissed by anyone, even if it’s his or her own grandparent, then don’t force it. If your child feels anxious, ask people to approach him or her slowly so your baby has the chance to warm up to them. Don’t take things fast.
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