Separation anxiety is a natural and temporary phase that can wax and wane over the first few years, and commonly first appears around 8-9 months old.
Regularly playing separation and return games like peek-a-boo can be helpful in easing the anxiety.
Babies especially love this variation: Cover baby’s head with a light blanket momentarily, saying “Where’s the baby?!”
Quickly pull the blanket off with a big smile and enthusiastically say, “There you are!”
Repeat, repeat, repeat. ☺