3 Ways to Help Alleviate Your Child’s Separation Anxiety

Dropping off little ones for their first day of care or preschool can be a stressful time for them, as well as the parents. These three simple tips can help make drop-offs easier as you encourage your kiddo’s independence and build trust with them in the first few weeks in their new environment.

1. Keep promises of when you will be back and be specific about when you will be back to pick up your child. Along with this, it’s also important to be consistent in the times that you drop off and pick up little ones, especially in the first few weeks of care. This will help build their trust and will allow them to become more independent and feel more comfortable exploring and learning throughout the day!
2. Practice being apart prior to their first day at school. A good idea is to have your child spend a few hours at a relative’s house, or take them over a friend’s house for a playdate. This will help them become accustomed to you being separated from them during a portion of the day.
3. Make a fun (but quick) goodbye ritual. Something like a secret handshake, high-five, etc. can put a smile on both your faces and make drop-off a more positive experience for everyone. Plus, this will start their day at school on a happy note.

Source: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/Pages/Soothing-Your-Childs-Separation-Anxiety.aspx