From about 6 months old, your baby starts noticing when you’re close and when you’re not. It’s normal for them to get upset if you leave the room or they can’t see you.

Because babies don’t understand time yet, they don’t know when you’ll come back. They might cry at bedtime or wake up and feel upset when they realise you’re gone. Separation anxiety happens most often between 6 months and 2 years, and most children grow out of it as they learn you always return. 

Talk to your doctor or child and family health nurse if: 

• sleep problems seriously affect your child
• the anxiety lasts for many months
• your child stays very anxious or upset for a long time