Separation anxiety is a common element of early childhood development. Though it is perfectly normal, it can be upsetting to parents and children.
Separation anxiety typically begins around a child’s first birthday and can persist until the child is two-and-a-half years old. It is important to note that a child’s unwillingness to leave a parent is actually a positive sign of a healthy parent/child relationship.
The following strategies may help families manage separation anxiety:
- Practice being apart from one other and introduce new people and places slowly. Make a few visits to your preschool/childcare center before your scheduled start date. This allows your child to adjust to the idea that you and he will be away from one another.
- Explain how long it will be before you will return. Use concepts that your child will understand (e.g., at lunch or after naptime). It is extremely important that you follow through on your promises. You should return when you say you will.
- Be calm and consistent. Resist the urge to run back to your child at the sight of her tears. It’s as essential to create a ‘separation routine’ as it is to reassure your child that you will return. Work with your child’s teacher to establish this routine and have confidence that your child’s teacher has the ability to handle the situation. After you’ve said your goodbyes, most teachers will probably engage your child in an activity or with a toy so you can depart.
- For your sake, establish a time to call the school to check on your child’s well-being. By the time you make this call, your child will most likely have calmed down and adjusted to the day’s routine.
- You may also want to check with your school’s policy regarding a doll or blanket from home. These comfort items may assist with transitions.
