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Saturday, June 9, 2012

Tips on Managing Separation Anxiety


As our kids grow, we dream of when they would start schooling; however when the time finally approaches our excitement often times cave in to anxiety, worry, and a bit of depression. These feelings are very normal as we definitely want the best for our kids, but fear if they would be taken care of as we usually do for them. We wonder how they would be received by the school, if they would fit into their classes, if the environment would be comfortable for them. Sometimes we think the kids would believe we no longer love them as we used to. Sometimes we even think that we are probably not doing the right thing by letting them start school as we think they are still too young and so we are exposing them inappropriately. Most often, the anxiety stems from the child’s anxiety itself. Here are some tips to help you get over the situation:


  • Focus on the child’s needs; remember that he needs to build social skills so it will not be too bad to start early
  • A visit to the school or day care centre will reassure you that you are not making mistakes (read our posting on Tips on finding a school for your child)
  • Encourage your child to play with the other kids; this will reassure him and hopefully he will look forward to going back
  • Try to explain to the child what is happening; even if he is still very young to fully understand; you will be surprised how they make the adjustment
  • It is normal for your child to cry the first few days; not to worry, he will soon settle into a routine of play as soon as you leave, so don’t stand around brooding
  • Say your goodbye and move on; your child would be in good hands especially if you had taken time to chose the school or day care

  

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