It can be worrying to see your baby become clingy around unfamiliar faces, especially during family events. As a new parent, I’ve found that understanding what’s going on can really help. Typically, stranger anxiety appears between 6 to 12 months of age. It’s a normal part of emotional development, as infants begin to distinguish between people they know and those they don’t.
This phase can lead to some tense moments, particularly when your little one cries or shows distress at the sight of someone unfamiliar, like a friend or relative. It’s important to remember that this behavior shows your child’s growing attachment to you and their need for a safe base. Knowing this can ease some of the concerns we might feel when our babies react negatively around others.
How have you handled stranger anxiety with your child? What strategies have you found helpful when introducing them to new people?