4/5 year old with sudden separation anxiety?

My 4.5 year old has separation anxiety but very randomly. When I’m home she’s got to be next to me, like touching me. If it’s not me, it’s my mom who is with them during the day. It comes and goes... but when it comes it’s bad! She’s giving us a hard time at bed, doesn’t want me to do anything but cuddle and only wants me.


Anyone go through this?

I tried thinking of triggers- we are taking a trip could it be that? I had twins 6 months ago... is this happening now? I’m just so confused and honestly frustrated!!!!


Please help me with advice or hope or anything!

Re: 4/5 year old with sudden separation anxiety?

It could be something attention-based or stemming from her seeing you spending time meeting the babies’ basic needs. My almost 5 year old is incredibly clingy, and I think a lot of this stems from when she sees me having to spend my time taking care of my dd2.

4/5 year old with sudden separation anxiety?

It could be attention but I know how you feel. My 10 mo th old twins would honestly climb back into the womb if they could. They want NO ONE so if I’m with them they are clinging to me for dear life. Never want their dad, my parents, my in laws. All these people and both are literally hanging on me! I feel ya!

4/5 year old with sudden separation anxiety?

Not separation anxiety, but my 5 year old will randomly be afraid of something she never was before, then won't be, then will be again.

4/5 year old with sudden separation anxiety?

Thank you all! Glad I’m not going through it alone!

Re: 4/5 year old with sudden separation anxiety?

I would suspect it is related to the new babies! My 4.5 (at the time) year old reacted with serious separation anxiety when our baby was about three months old last year. He still gets scared sometimes when I step out of the room but he's gotten a lot better. Hang in. You're not alone!