Are you excited to see your little one going to kindergarten but also worried that they might experience fear or cling to you as they go to school? Separation anxiety is a common phase of development that all children go through between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. While this period can be challenging for you and your child, various strategies can help children transition to kindergarten effectively. Let’s look at some of them in this article.
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Prepare the child for school
Separation can be a fearful experience for children, so the best way to reduce fear is to prepare the child for school or kindergarten. Talk about what a school looks like, what they can learn, and what exciting experiences they will have. Read books about school, visit the school with your child, and introduce them to their teacher and classmates. All of this can help them feel safe in the school environment.
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Build a stable routine
Children thrive in safety and predictability. Having a stable morning routine before going to school that allows them enough time to wake up, have breakfast and get ready can bring a sense of certainty A good afterschool routine involving meeting the caregiver and spending time with them can also build safety.
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Practice small periods of separation
If you see your child struggling to cope without you, start with small steps. Practice small periods of separation, like leaving your child with a trusted friend or family member. Enroll them in activities involving other children so that they can feel comfortable being without you. This process can make the transition to school easier.
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Validate your child’s feelings
Let your child know that it’s normal for them to be nervous about going to school, especially in the first few days. Encourage them to participate and enjoy themselves alongside their peers. Acknowledging the child’s feelings can create safety and understanding while also building excitement for school.
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Give them a comforting object
A comforting object, such as a family picture or a favorite toy, can create a sense of familiarity in a new and uncertain environment. This familiar object can provide reassurance and ease anxiety throughout the day.
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Reassure your child
While a comforting object can be helpful, reassurance in the form of soothing words from a parent can be powerful in easing separation anxiety. Remind your child that you will meet them after school and keep your word. Keeping your promises can build trust and safety in children, easing anxiety.
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Talk about what you’ll do together
Giving your child something to look forward to after school can help them be motivated by acting as positive reinforcement. Discuss an activity or a few things that you will do with them after school, like giving them a treat or taking them to a park, etc. This can also help shift their focus from anxiety to the excitement of reunion.
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Encourage them to socialize
Positive interactions with peers can make schooling more enjoyable and hence it can be one of the powerful ways to reduce separation anxiety Encourage your child to interact with their peers and participate in group activities. Also, encourage them to interact with peers outside of school to strengthen friendships.
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Seek added support
Teachers are experienced in handling separation anxiety and can offer additional support to your child. Talk to your child’s teachers about your concerns and explore how they can help you and your child. Also, consider seeking help from a mental health professional or a child psychologist if the separation anxiety persists.
Conclusion:
While it may be tough to see your child struggle with separation anxiety, it is an extremely common phase in their developmental journey. You can navigate this phase effectively by preparing the child for school, building healthy routines, validating their feelings and easing them into small periods of separation. Consider seeking added support from teachers and mental health professionals if needed. Implementing these strategies effectively ensures that your child easily transitions to school life and their anxiety lessens gradually.
References
- Education, H. E., & [email protected]. (2024, July 25). Managing separation anxiety at kindergarten. Harmony Early Education. https://harmonylearning.com.au/managing-separation-anxiety-at-kindergarten/
- FNP, T. B. (2024, April 23). Easing Separation Anxiety in Preschoolers and Kindergarteners. Wee Care Pediatrics. https://weecarepediatrics.com/easing-separation-anxiety-in-preschoolers-and-kindergarteners/
- Gregory, L. (n.d.). How to Help a Child With Separation Anxiety at School. Retrieved February 17, 2025, from https://mybrightwheel.com/blog/how-to-help-a-child-with-separation-anxiety-at-school
- Strategies, T. (2023, January 10). 6 Teacher-Approved Tips to Help Children Tackle Separation Anxiety. Teaching Strategies. https://teachingstrategies.com/blog/teacher-approved-separation-anxiety-tips-for-children/
