Screaming whenever I go out of sight.

[Geekster]

My DD is nine months old and in the last couple of weeks has started screaming when she can't see me. No one else can console her, she just fights her Dad. She has stopped self settling at night and will only go to sleep cuddling me, then I put her in her cot once she has nodded off, then she tends to sleep ok. This has all come after her being poorly with sickness and diarrhoea and the onset of teething. Is this also the start of separation anxiety, and if so what can I do to help her?

Yes, it's separation anxiety - totally age-appropriate and a good sign - but probably exacerbated by being ill. You just have to ride it out, I'm afraid. Reassure her with your presence and physical contact and don't try to force her to become more comfortable without you and she will get through it. Don't worry that you're setting up unbreakable habits by letting her go to sleep on you and then putting her to bed asleep - give her a few weeks and then start occasionally trying her on self-settling again.

This Too Shall Pass.

Thanks ZuleikaD at least it's for a reason and must admit I do get nice cuddles even if its very trying at times. Just a phase.