Coping With Seperation Anxiety

One of the most difficult things for parents and children new to starting a school is coping with the separation anxiety. Seeing your child cry when he or she realizes you are leaving can be very emotional and difficult. However take comfort in knowing that your child's reactions as well as your own is very normal, hopefully this can make the process easier. Here are some tips you can take to hopefully make the transition a bit smoother for them as well as yourself.:
Familiarity: Face day and Open House are great opportunities for your child to adjust to his/her new environment and get to know their teachers and classmates. Visit the school several times before and talk to your child about what he/she will expect once they start.
Be Prepared: Recognize that your child may have may have difficulties separating. Young children often gauge situations by how adults respond to them. Therefore, try not to make your concerns too evident to your child. On the other hand, do not ignore or diminish your child's concerns. For example, it is okay to tell your child, "I know you are sad when mommy leaves, but I think of you all day and will be back to get you after you nap." Remember, too that staff members at Kingswood have a lot of experience with separation issues, and are there to help you and your child work through the transition. Feel free to call as many times as you like to check up during the day.
Be consistent: Having a routine during the first few weeks is essential. Young children cannot tell time or even recall day-today events, their sense of security comes from predictable routines. Waking up in the morning, leaving the house, saying your goodbyes in the same way each day, and picking up your child at the same of the day will provide much needed consistency. Sometimes having special rituals during drop-off and pick-up times can be helpful. After a time your child will learn that you will come back when you day you will. AS important, a foundation of trust is established between you and your child, one that will make future transitions easier.