9-month-old starting separation anxiety- help?

Question

Just with bedtime and naptime. She is still fine when I bring her to day care- she loves it. When I put her down for a nap, for the past week, she has screamed and screamed. I am a firmly believe it is better for babies to cry it out, but I've gone and gotten her out of her crib for the past four nights and days. Two nights ago she got so upset when I picked her up she threw up. What can I do? I've been rocking her in the rocking chair, but I don't want her to get attatched to that. Help!

Answer 1

Maybe you could just go in there and pat her back, rub her head or give her a hug in the crib.  That way you are not picking her up, and she knows you love her.  I think eventually she will cry herself to sleep.

Answer 2

Let her cry it out.  Everytime you go get her out of her crib, you're just reinforcing her behavior.  When you put her down, leave the room.  When she starts crying, wait a few minutes, go check on her to make sure she's not hurt in any way (don't pick her up), tuck her back in and leave again.  Space out your check-ins longer and longer but never pick her up.  She'll figure it out.  Babies aren't as ignorant as people seem to think.  They will behave in a particular way to get a reaction.  When she figures out that she's not getting the reaction she wants, she'll slowly stop.  It may take a few weeks but you have to be consistent.  If you break the rule just once, you'll have to start all over.  Also once you get to the point of her napping (or even just laying there quietly) for a specific period of time, make sure to hug and kiss her crazily when it's time for her to come out.  She'll know that you still love her but she has to do things on your terms.

Answer 3

I'm not a believer in the cry it out method.  I think you're doing the right thing by comforting her and being there for her.  There will come a day when you want to cuddle your daughter and she'll want no part of it ... enjoy these days and the time you spend together.  I've never met a 9 year old that needed to be rocked to bed.  

Answer 4

even though she is nine months old she still needs you there.