Anxiety about being separated is common among children, especially when they are about to embark on a new chapter of their lives. Preschool, grade school or even being dropped off with a family member or friend has the potential to create anxiety in kids.
The behaviors that result from separation anxiety can be mild to severe. They can cause even the calmest parent to become easily frustrated. Helping a child overcome separation anxiety isn’t as complicated as it may sound. You can take steps to begin dealing with separation anxiety long before your child faces these circumstances.
- It’s OK to say goodbye. Some parents try to slip away quietly to not cause anxiety, but that may actually be doing more harm than good.
- Create a routine. When leaving a room, even to go make dinner, develop a routine of saying goodbye. Let your child know how long you’ll be gone and that you’ll see them soon (and be sure to follow through).
- Encourage quality alone time. If you encourage your child to have fun alone, he or she will feel less anxious and not as dependent on you.
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