First of all it is important to understand that it is a normal part of growing up, and is a sign that your infant is aware of their surroundings and that they recognise you as their main caregiver.
If you have been around them 24/7 they will associate you with safety and security and will obviously become distressed and suffer separation anxiety when not with you.
Babies start to make strange around the six month mark although it can happen earlier or later depending on your child and while it is normal, there are a few things that you can do.
Don’t force them
Babies who make strange don’t feel comfortable with the person who has approached them. So to make the transition easier, when you do have visitors, don’t let them hold or fuss over your baby until near the end of the visit or until you notice your little one has started to relax. This will give your baby time to get used to the new person.
Offer lots of reassurance
When your little one is around strangers make sure they feel safe and offer lots of reassurance. If they do become upset when someone is near, talk to them while holding and cuddling them so they know that you are there.
Discuss the situation with others
When it comes to babies, everyone wants to have a cuddle and it can be slightly upsetting when they become distressed around you. So to help your child, make sure that visitors and family members know that he or she is making strange so that they go a little easier on them and don’t make a big deal when they start to cry.
Introduce new people while holding them
To make your baby feel more comfortable hold them in your arms while you talk to the person they are wary of. Encourage that person to make simple forms of contact with your baby such as a smile or eye contact holding for just a second before carrying on talking to you. This way, your infant will start to get to know them and feel more comfortable in their presence.
At the end of the day, it is a normal part of growing up and you shouldn't worry. They will eventually grow out of it.
