Separation Anxiety: helping your child and yourself cope with school or daycare
The daunting challenge of separation anxiety is a hurdle faced by many parents and children as they step into the world of school or daycare. Here are strategies to aid both you and your child in coping with this demanding phase.
For Your Child:
- Practice Short Separations: Commence with brief separations from a young age. Leave your child with a trusted caregiver or family member for short periods, gradually extending the duration.
- Create a Goodbye Ritual: Establish a predictable and comforting goodbye routine. A hug, a kiss, and a special phrase can instil a sense of security.
- Build Trust: Emphasise that you will always return to pick them up. This reassurance can alleviate anxiety.
- Comfort Object: Permit your child to bring a comfort item, such as a stuffed animal or blanket.
- Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge and reward your child for successful separations. Offer stickers or small treats as positive reinforcement.
For Parents:
- Stay Calm and Confident: Children absorb their parents' emotions. Maintain composure and confidence during drop-offs, even if you're feeling emotional.
- Avoid Sneaking Away: Departing without your child noticing can erode trust. It's better to bid farewell and assure them of your return.
- Set a Consistent Routine: A regular daily schedule fosters your child's sense of security. Consistency in drop-off and pickup times holds particular importance.
- Acknowledge Their Feelings: Permit your child to express their emotions. It's natural for them to feel sadness or anxiety about separation.
- Stay Connected: Some daycares and schools offer opportunities for parents to make calls and check in during the day. Utilise this option if it eases your anxiety.
Separation anxiety is a customary phase in a child's development and typically improves with time and patience. Be supportive, empathetic, and consistent, and both you and your child will navigate this phase together.
