On Object Permanence and Separation Anxiety – Theory
Children develop significant object permanence between 4-8 months of age without developing a concept of time. They realize mom and dad exist when out of sight, yet won’t know mom will come back if she leaves, which in some cases can cause a child to cry with fear.
Children between 8 months and one year old are even more uncertain about being separated from a parent. This is when separation anxiety typically develops, and children may become agitated and upset when a parent is out of sight. The timing of separation anxiety can vary. Some kids might go through it later, between 18 months and 2½ years of age.
Intense separation anxiety can last into elementary school or beyond, and lead to:
• panic symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath) or panic attacks before a parent leaves
• nightmares about separation
• fear of sleeping alone
• excessive worry about being lost or kidnapped or going places without a parent
Gooru Mirror keeps children connected with their loved ones during these critical bonding and development years between 8 months and 2½ years.