During the early years of childhood, parents usually have to deal with what is known as ‘separation anxiety’. As your child gets more aware of the world and their surroundings, separating from you will become an issue for them. You must have found the perfect day care centregoogling ‘best day care near me’ and talking to other parents. But, leaving your child there everyday is a struggle, especially if it’s accompanied with cries and screams. Separation anxiety is a common issue that can be dealt with through the following ways:
Helping Your Child With Separation Anxiety
- Have a goodbye ritual – Whether it is a long hand movement, a special toy or blanket, triple kisses, you need to create a sweet and short goodbye ritual with your toddler. It is important to keep it short as if you continue to linger, the transition time will increase as well along with the anxiety.
- Consistency is the key – You need to have the same drop-off ritual every day when you leave your child at the child care center. Try to avoid as many unexpected factors as you can. Having a routine will not also make your child build trust in you and their independence, but also help you deal with the emotions associated with leaving your child at the preschool or child care center.
- Give them attention – When you are leaving your child at the child care center, make sure that you give them your full attention. It is important that you provide them with affection and be loving during separation. After that, regardless of the cries or the antics, you need to say a quick goodbye.
- Make a promise and keep it – When you promise your kid to return and stick to it, you will build independence and trust. Your child will have confidence in their ability to stay at the day care centre without you. Make sure that you don’t return to the class to visit your child as this can lead to a terrible transition period. If you are missing them and decide to visit them in class, you will have to deal with the separation anxiety all over again.
As time passes by, your child will have less and less separation anxiety. If you think that your child is not able to adapt to their new surroundings without you, you can talk to a pediatrician or a counselor and get support for your family. They will help create a plan that eases your child’s separation anxiety.