At approximately what age does separation anxiety commonly begin in toddlers?

• A. 9 months
• B. 12 months
• C. 18-24 months
• D. 3 years

Answer: (C)

Separation anxiety reflects a child’s growing attachment and the realization that a caregiver’s absence is temporary but real. As toddlers develop, they become more aware of separations and prefer to stay close to a familiar caregiver, especially when they’re also gaining new independence. This combination typically shows up most commonly around 18 to 24 months, making that the standard window for when separation anxiety begins during the toddler years. It’s a normal, developmentally appropriate phase, though individual timing can vary. To support families, you can encourage predictable goodbye routines, gentle but brief separations to build coping skills, and reassurance that the caregiver will return, helping the child adjust during transitions.