Dealing With Your Own Separation Anxiety

We always share information on how to help your child adjust to preschool or pre-kindergarten and manage their separation anxiety during this exciting new time in your child’s life. If you’re like most parents we know, you’ve had to wipe away a few tears of your own as you send your child off to school. If you could use a little help managing “mom” separation anxiety, we’re here to help. Here are a few tips to help you cope during the day when your preschooler is enjoying their day at school:

 

Tip #1 – Have a Good Bye Ritual

These will comfort you as much as it comforts your child. A short, straightforward goodbye routine helps you and your child take an active role in saying “good bye” and brings a reassuring feeling to a difficult step.

Tip #2 – Honor Your Feelings But Do It Privately

It’s 100% completely normal to feel sad about leaving your child or even worrying that they will be OK during the day, while at school. It’s definitely acceptable to honor your feelings and have a good cry once your little one has left. Just remember to wait until he has gone so that you can reassure your child that there is nothing to be upset about.

Tip #3 – Get to Know Your Child’s Teacher

It’s much easier to relax when your child is away at school if you feel comfortable with the person your child will be with all day long. Establish a relationship with your child’s preschool or pre-k teacher and speak with them on drop off and pick up so you feel better about the time your child is with them.

Tip #4 – Get Organized at Night for the Next Morning

If you are rushing in the morning, it can lead to stress and anxiety which makes saying good bye harder for both you and your child. Prevent an emotional upheaval by prepping the night before for the big day. Pull out clothes for both your child and yourself and have bags packed and ready to go so you can ease into the day with a smooth morning & easy good bye.

Tip #5 – Make a List of Things You Can’t Wait to Do

Now that you will have extra time while your preschooler is off learning & exploring, you can get to the things on your “to-do” list that may have been put on the back burner for way too long. Make a list of things you are looking forward to doing (chores or not) and then use the time while your child is away to catch up on your list.

Nurturing yourself is JUST as important as nurturing your child. You cannot fill from a cup that is empty so take the time you need to adjust to this new routine and use your newfound freedom to enjoy yourself while your little one is enjoying the benefits of a wonderful preschool or pre-k program. Check out Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park if you are interested in a leading child care provider and preschool environment.