Little Chica is now 12+ months old, and she has been starting to experience separation anxiety. She does well with family or close friends watching her while we are gone, but has had a tough time while I work out for about an hour at the YMCA. The staff there are very friendly, but she cries the instant I leave - and a few times on and off throughout my workout.
It makes me feel horrible!
But, I know as a stay-at-home Mom, she needs to see and trust more than just me. I think that it is healthy for the both of us, and I do not think it has an adverse affect on our attachment as mother and daughter, as some might allude. As she is growing and becoming more independent, I think being away from me while in the care of safe people is a positive and helpful practice.
So now the question: how do I go about it?
I have only recently started to make a concerted effort in taking her to the gym. My thought is taking her 2 or 3 times a week for roughly an hour is not only good for ME (read: my body), but for her ability to cope and know that I will come back for her. I'll be starting a study in the Fall at a local church, and I will need to put her in the nursery there for about 2 hours. I'd love to work on it with her before we get to that point.
So...what is YOUR advice? Tips?
Thanks in advance for your willingness to share!
