When your baby is 7-8 months they may start to show a fear of strangers and sometimes even familiar people. Your baby may cry and get very upset if a new person tries to pick them up or hold them. Don’t worry this is a normal stage of development and it signals that your baby has a healthy bond with you! If your baby is not ready to be held by others, don’t force them.

Be patient with your baby and reassure them that they are safe. Give your baby time to “warm up” to new people. Hold your baby or keep them close as they are getting used to new people. Then slowly encourage them to go to the new person. This will tell them that you trust the new person and they can too! Stranger anxiety lasts until baby is between 18-24 months and usually gets better in the later months.

Additional Stranger Anxiety Resources:
Facts about Stranger Anxiety
How to Deal with Your Baby’s Stranger Anxiety