It is common for young children to struggle with separation and being around strangers. Known as separation anxiety, it varies between children. Some babies can become hysterical when mum is out of sight for a short period, whereas other children demonstrate ongoing anxiety at separations throughout childhood.
This month’s blog at Little Steps Day Care looks at how you can support your child with separation anxiety. For more details, call us in Renhold on 01234 889518.
What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a child’s fear of being away from their parents or carer. As your baby starts to grow and become more conscious of their surroundings, they realise how dependent they are on their parents/carer. As they have grown used to your presence, they may feel unsafe when you are not around.
Those with separation anxiety may cry or cling onto parents or carers when being separated. It is a common part of a child’s development and usually gradually disappears throughout early childhood.
Short-Term Separation
Start by leaving your child in the care of a trusted friend or family member when you go out for short periods. This will help your child realise that they can trust others to look after them.
Over time, you can gradually increase how long you are gone for. This will further help your child get used to spending time away from you.
Create a Goodbye Routine
Create a goodbye routine and stick with it. Whether it’s a secret handshake or a kiss on the cheek, the most important thing to do is leave when it’s done.
Try not to get baited into staying any longer than you should or giving one last hug. Set them up for the expectation that goodbye means goodbye until you see them later.
Control Your Own Emotions
Do your best to stay calm and in control of your own emotions. We understand it can be difficult leaving your child for a few hours. Put on a brave face and show them that everything is under control.
Hiding emotions from your children isn’t always best practice. But this is about helping them feel secure without your presence.
Plan for Your Return
Planning for your return will help your child realise that you will be back soon. Furthermore, it gives them something to look forward to.
Not only will this help reassure them, but it will also make time without you go by faster. Leaving your child with something to look forward to will make the experience more positive.
Contact Little Steps Day Care
For more information about how you can support your child with separation anxiety, contact Little Steps Day Care. Call us in Renhold on 01234 889518. Alternatively, you can send us a message via our contact form.
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