Coping with separation anxiety, both parents and children

Starting school or returning after the summer holidays can be a challenging time for both parents and children, especially if the child or parent/s is struggling with separation anxiety.

Here are some tips to help manage this difficult transition:

1. Establish a routine: A predictable daily routine can help create a sense of security for the child. This can include a consistent morning and after-school routine for structure and stability.
2. Practice separation: Gradually expose the child to short periods of separation to help them become more comfortable being apart from their parents. This can involve leaving them with a trusted caregiver for brief periods.
3. Provide reassurance: Offer your child plenty of reassurance and support. Let them know it’s normal to feel anxious, which can help them feel understood and less alone, and that you will always return for them.
4. Stay positive: Your attitude during drop-off can significantly impact your child’s experience. Maintaining a positive and confident demeanour and avoiding lingering too long can help reassure your child and reduce their anxiety. Remember, children can pick up on their parents’ emotions.
5. Communicate with the school: Inform the child’s teacher about their separation anxiety. This will allow the teacher to offer additional support and understanding.
6. Encourage independence: Encourage your child to participate in activities and play independently. This can help build their confidence and reduce their anxiety about being away from you.
7. Seek professional help if needed: If the separation anxiety is severe and persistent, consider seeking professional help from a counsellor or therapist who specialises in childhood anxiety.

By implementing these strategies and being patient and supportive, parents can help their children cope with separation anxiety as they navigate the challenges of starting or returning to school.

Here are some tips for parents struggling with separation from their child:

1. Practice self-care: It’s essential for parents to take care of their own emotional well-being. Engage in activities that help reduce stress and bring joy, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with friends and loved ones.
2. Seek support: Connect with other parents who may have gone through similar experiences. Sharing your feelings and concerns with others can provide valuable support and understanding.
3. Trust the teacher and caregivers: If you leave your child with a trusted caregiver or teacher, have confidence in their ability to provide care and comfort. Build a positive relationship with the teacher from the beginning to ease your own worries.
4. Stay connected: Establish a plan for staying connected with your child during the separation by setting up a special goodbye routine.
5. Educate yourself: Learn more about separation anxiety and how it manifests in both parents and children. Understanding the underlying causes and typical behaviours can help parents feel more equipped to handle the situation.
6. Practice patience: It’s natural to feel guilty or emotional about leaving your child, but remember that patience is important. Over time, most children adjust to separations and become more comfortable with the routine.
7. Seek professional help if needed: If your own anxiety about the separation is overwhelming and interfering with daily life, seeking guidance from a counsellor or therapist can be beneficial.

Remember, it’s okay to feel anxious, but by taking care of yourself and seeking support when needed, you can better manage the challenges of separation.