Sudden and extreme separation anxiety in 3 yo daughter

[Tw1nsMummy]

Hi

I have 3yo boy/girl twins. Over the last couple of weeks my daughter has developed extreme separation anxiety (doesn't want to let me out of her sight, wants me to watch her go to sleep) and gets close to hysterical if, for example, I leave the room to nip to the loo - even if my husband or parents are in the room with her.

Apart from a very occasional tear or two when dropping them at nursery, neither twin has ever suffered from any kind of separation anxiety before. I can't think of any external factors that might have triggered this intense reaction.

My daughter is shyer than her brother and has always needed reassurance whereas my son is very self contained (give him a train and his comforter and he's in heaven!) I suspect my daughter is seeking reassurance (and 1-1 attention). My husband and I regularly spend 1-1 time with each child - this morning I took my daughter out for a couple of hours. However, this doesn't seem to be 'enough'. It's almost as though she thinks if she can't see me, I will do a 'runner'.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this? Hints and tips on how to reassure my daughter (and stay sane myself!) greatly appreciated.

Thank you
Catherine

[Tw1nsMummy]

Bump! Any help or advice greatly appreciated.

Many thanks

[MyOneandYoni]

It's Christmas. It's a terrifying time of year when you are 3. A big fat man with a beard is allowed to creep into your room whilst you are asleep. He is dressed all in red (terrifying colour). You are supposed to be happy about this and smile and kiss all those long-distance relatives.
Your mum is your anchor at the moment. Hold on tight and look forward to nursery starting up again...

[Tw1nsMummy]

Thanks for your message! She had a lovely day at nursery today though was very clingy again at bedtime :( Fingers crossed that she'll be back to normal again once she settles back into the routine.

Thanks again for your message