SEPARATION ANXIETY
It’s natural for your young child to feel anxious when you say goodbye. In early childhood, crying, tantrums, or clinginess are healthy reactions to separation and a normal stage of development. Separation anxiety can begin before a child’s first birthday, and may pop up again or last until a child is four years old. However, both the intensity level and timing of separation anxiety vary tremendously from child to child. A little worry over leaving mom or dad is normal, even when your child is older. You can ease your child’s separation anxiety by staying patient and consistent, and by gently but firmly setting limits.
EASING SEPARATION ANXIETY
Build familiarity. Look for ways to weave your child’s school experiences into her life. Attend back-to-school kick-offs, and help them make new acquaintances.
Tell your child what to expect. Let them know where you’ll be while you’re away and when you’ll be back. Make sure they meet their new teacher(s) and talk through a day at School.
Don’t sneak away when you bring them on the first day. Be positive and remind your child when you’ll be back, and that you’ll have to go to the store together or something they are familiar with.
Don’t prolong goodbye. Aim to establish a comfortable routine with a cheerful hug, kiss and goodbye, then head out. If you’re worried, e-mail the teacher to check on your child.
Return on time. When you come back when you say you will, your child will begin to understand that you’ll always return.
Stay calm. Stay calm and upbeat at both drop-off and pick-up
Be patient. Most kids will get better about separation with time. If your child continues to be excessively fearful of being separated from you, talk to your pediatrician