Many babies suffer from separation anxiety; here are some tips to cope with this common problem. Most babies and toddlers will show real anxiety and be upset at the idea, or reality, of being separated from a parent, which can lead them to cry, yell, or act out in other ways. If one thinks about this in evolutionary terms, this behavior makes a lot of sense, a defenseless baby would be without protection and care if left alone for long, and might, in certain circumstances not survive. Given these evolutionary instincts, it's not surprising that a baby can get upset, when separated from the people who love and nurture him. Different cultures have varying attitudes about babies and separation. Western countries lean towards early autonomy for infants, whereas in many other cultures, mothers and babies are seldom separated during the first year of a baby's life. However, despite varying ideas of how to raise a child, separation anxiety can be a real thorny issue for parents. The good news is that it will pass, and that there are some good ways to manage separation anxiety in the meantime. Babies can show signs of separation anxiety as early as 6 to 7 months, but the "crisis" age for most babies is between 12 to 18 months. This anxiety can strike when you or your partner leave for work or to run an errand, or can even strike at night, when your little one is in the nursery, away from Mommy and Daddy. Babies experiencing separation anxiety fear that a parent will leave and not return; this fear may be worsened in the presence of a stranger. Typical responses of babies experiencing this normal phase of development may include the following: crying when you leave the room, clinging or crying, especially in new situations, awakening and crying at night after previously sleeping through the night, refusal to go to sleep without parent nearby. If your baby is suffering from separation anxiety, try to minimize separations as much as you can. Which basically means, try and wait till your little one outgrows this feeling. If you have to leave your baby, to return to work or to run an errand, try to leave your little one with people who are familiar, like a grandparent or aunt. While your baby may still protest, chances are that familiar faces will prove more soothing in your absence. If you need to leave your child with someone your little one doesn't know, try and give your baby a chance to get familiar with the new caregiver before you leave. Ask a new sitter to come visit and play with your baby before leaving them alone for the first time. And for your first big outing, ask the sitter to come 30 minutes before you leave to help ease the transition. Always say good-bye. Kiss and hug your little one, and share where you're going and that you'll be back. Just don't prolong your goodbyes as this can make it more difficult for baby. And don't sneak out, as your baby will feel only more abandoned when they discover that you're gone. It may not be easy at first, but it will get better. Practice makes perfect, for both of you!