Building Trust and Security: Strategies for Easing Separation Anxiety

What Causes Separation Anxiety in Children?

Under normal circumstances, children, more specifically toddlers, develop separation anxiety. It is one of the developmental milestones and is completely normal for a child to feel anxious when their parents are away. However, if the feeling of anxiety persists beyond the age when a child finishes preschool, it must be immediately addressed by parents, guardians, and teachers.

Child psychologists opine that anxiousness and the resulting actions usually depend on the age and development of a child and, therefore, differ from one child to another.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of separation anxiety:

• Children with separation anxiety show excessive distress when they anticipate being separated from their parents or staying away from home, even if only for a few hours.
• Some children constantly worry about accidents, illness, or disasters affecting themselves or their parents. Some even worry about losing a parent or guardian.
• As a result, some children tend to be excessively clingy when their parents arrive home or when they are with them on holidays.
• In certain cases, children often complain of an upset stomach, headaches, or other forms of physical discomfort as an excuse to avoid separation.
• Refusal or reluctance to leave home, only agreeing to go out when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Frequently checking on their parents through calls or texts, requiring constant reassurance of their availability and unconditional love.
  
  

What To Do When Separation Anxiety Impacts Your Child’s Emotional and Cognitive Development

• Set a Routine: Anticipate your child’s response and create a routine that is feasible and easy for them. If there is any change in the routine, communicate it to your child in advance so they can prepare emotionally. Having a routine eases anxiety and helps your child get ready for what is coming next.
• Crisp and Consistent Transitions: A simple ritual like waving goodbye to your child and saying, “I love you, have a fun day with your teachers,” can set a positive tone for the day. Such connections make your child eager to share everything that happened at school later during dinner.
• Validate Their Feelings: Hear your child out thoroughly and make them feel supported. If they share situations where they feel embarrassed, worried, or upset, acknowledge their feelings. Let them cry if needed and assure them that every challenge has a silver lining. Positive behaviour and an encouraging attitude from parents, guardians, and teachers help children overcome crises successfully.

How Can You Build Trust?

1. Create a Routine: Establish and maintain consistency in daily activities.
2. Communicate: Narrate your day and listen to your child’s feelings and experiences.
3. Practice Short Separations: Gradually build your child’s confidence in being away from you.
4. Ensure a Safe Environment: Let your child feel secure in their surroundings, even in your absence.
5. Acknowledge Their Feelings: Validate their emotions and provide reassurance.
6. Use Relaxation Techniques: Encourage activities that reduce anxiety, like deep breathing or calming games.
7. Collaborate with Teachers: Create a support plan with educators to help ease separation anxiety.
8. Seek Professional Help: If needed, consult a paediatrician or child psychologist to develop effective coping strategies.

Conclusion

At The Manthan School, the best play school in Noida, we understand the delicate balance required to nurture young minds and ease the transition for children experiencing separation anxiety. Our approach integrates structured routines, consistent communication, and a supportive environment to help children feel secure and valued. By fostering trust and acknowledging each child’s unique emotional needs, we ensure they not only adapt but thrive, both emotionally and academically.

Empowering young learners to overcome challenges is at the heart of The Manthan School’s philosophy.

Join us in shaping a brighter, more confident future for your child.