How to Help a Child With Separation Anxiety at School

How to Help a Child With Separation Anxiety at School

• Gurprit Ganda
• Jul 10, 2024
• 3 min read

Updated:

Oct 28, 2024

As parents, we’ve all experienced that heart-wrenching moment when our child clings to us on their first day of school or childcare, pleading, “Mum, don’t go!” Their tearful eyes and tight grip on our legs can be emotionally overwhelming for both parent and child. This scenario is a common manifestation of separation anxiety.

Understanding Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Separation

Anxiety

Disorder (SAD) is a specific type of anxiety disorder that primarily affects children, although it can also occur in adults. It’s characterized by excessive fear or anxiety concerning separation from home or attachment figures.

Circumstances That May Trigger SAD in Children

Children often develop anxiety when exposed to unfamiliar environments after spending most of their time in a safe, settled atmosphere. This unease can also affect parents, creating a cycle of anxiety. Significant life changes or traumatic experiences can also trigger separation anxiety.

Common Symptoms in Children of Separation Anxiety

• Excessive clinginess to parents or caregivers

Excessive clinginess to parents or caregivers

• Intense crying or emotional outbursts

Intense crying or emotional outbursts

• Refusal to engage in activities requiring separation

Refusal to engage in activities requiring separation

• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches

Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches

• Severe temper tantrums

Severe temper tantrums

• School refusal or poor academic performance

School refusal or poor academic performance

• Difficulty interacting with peers

Difficulty interacting with peers

• Resistance to sleeping alone

Resistance to sleeping alone

• Frequent nightmares

Frequent nightmares

Strategies for Managing Separation Anxiety

Starting school or childcare is often a significant source of anxiety. Here are some evidence-based strategies to help minimize separation anxiety:

1. Implement a Gradual Transition

Introduce your child to new environments gradually. For childcare, stay with them for short periods initially, engaging in joint activities. As they become more comfortable, gradually reduce your presence over time. This approach helps children adjust to new surroundings at their own pace.

2. Avoid Sneaking Away

While it might seem easier to leave when your child is distracted, this approach can increase anxiety in the long run. It may lead children to become hypervigilant, fearing you might disappear at any moment.

3. Establish a Goodbye Ritual

Create a consistent farewell routine, such as a special hug, kiss, or handshake. Regular use of these gestures helps your child’s brain recognize them as a signal that you’re leaving but will return, potentially reducing anxiety.

4. Minimize Stress Before School Begins

Plan to return from holidays well before school starts, allowing your child time to settle at home. Create a calm environment to help your child adjust before the first day of school or childcare approaches.

5. Be Mindful of Your Emotional Signals

Children as young as 4-5 months can recognize facial cues and emotional signals from their parents. Your anxiety or sadness can be contagious, even if unspoken. Try to maintain a positive demeanor during separations, even if you’re feeling anxious yourself.

6. Encourage Independence

Gradually increase your child’s independence at home. This could involve letting them play in another room or staying with a trusted caregiver for short periods.

7. Maintain Consistent Routines

Predictable daily routines can provide a sense of security for children with separation anxiety. Stick to regular meal times, bedtimes, and other daily activities as much as possible.

Conclusion

Separation Anxiety Disorder is common among young children, particularly between the ages of 8 months to 5-6 years. While the strategies above can help manage separation anxiety, it’s important to remember that every child is unique. If your child’s anxiety persists or significantly impacts their daily life, consider seeking professional help. A

child psychologist

can provide tailored strategies and support for both you and your child.

Remember, with patience, understanding, and the right approach, most children can overcome separation anxiety and develop the confidence to explore the world independently.

Subscribe to our newsletter

I want to subscribe to the mailing list.

Tags:

• anxiety
• Anxiety
• Mental Health