Hey, ok so I have a few ideas:
- If its possible, have one of the parents come in with the child for the first few visits, first staying the whole time, then leaving for a short period of time, with the time apart, increasing.
- Have the child bring a favourite toy to distract them with when the parent leaves
- Practice with quick, daily separations (Parent will get baby started with playing with an interesting toy or another person. When the little one is happily engaged, parent will walk slowly, and go briefly into another room. Parent will whistle, sing, hum, or talk so she knows the parent is still there, even though she can’t see the parent. Carry out these brief separations off and on throughout the day in a variety of different situations.). This kind of goes with the first point.
- make the change with the baby in a neutral place, such as playing on the floor or sitting in a swing, highchair or baby seat. The carer will sit next to the baby and engage their attention as the parent says a quick, happy good-bye. As soon as the parent is gone is the best time for the carer The advantage is that the caregiver will be put in the position of rescuer and can help them with their relationship.
- Dont rush the parting
- Create a goodbye routine with the parent so that the child learns that this is part of the day and he/she will see mum soon.
These are a few off the top of my head, If I remember more, Ill put them up.
