Managing Separation Anxiety in Preschoolers: For Parents

What is it?

Managing separation anxiety in preschoolers can be defined as a fear whereby a child is in distress after being separated from their family or caregiver. To understand separation anxiety most children will experience separation anxiety, and it is quite common, though it can be tough for the child and parents.

Why does it happen?

When the temperament that human beings acquire, especially from their parents or close family members. When they are apart, they may end up fearing something or ending up feeling all worried or even lost.

The moment when the child begins attending center-based early childhood education centers such as preschool is always tough, saying goodbye to your little one. Perhaps they may feel sad, scared, or worried about being away from you.

In other words, imagine being separated from your twin by feeling distressed when your favorite toy is taken away or feeling that way every time your mom or dad leaves the room.

Same, that is your everyday life as a kid with separation anxiety. They all have been through it; nonetheless, it is not always easy to handle. Now, let’s discuss something as acute as separation anxiety and how parents can assist children in dealing with it. We can also discover how you could get your child happy and secure at school.

As parents, we play a crucial role in helping our children navigate separation anxiety. It’s a natural part of their growth, and with our support, they can emerge from it stronger, wiser, and more confident.

Excessive crying or tantrums when the caregiver leaves

We picture a child crying throughout the scene’s duration with an ugly look on their face or the parent leaving the house. Thus, this may be actually a relatively normal reaction for a child with separation anxiety.

Refusal to go to school or daycare

Symptoms: A child who usually happily goes to school or daycare may start refusing to go at all, hug their parent’s leg, or even yell and cry at the very idea.

Clinginess or avoidance of other children

A child with separation anxiety could be too clingy to their caregiver, does not want to let go, and does not join other children to play. They may also feel uncomfortable around other people, and can shun social interactions as well as new events.

Difficulty falling asleep or staying, By influencing the mode and quality of the child’s sleep,

SA could prevent the child from getting good and restful sleep at night.
(SA stands for Sleep Apnea)
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This disorder can disrupt sleep and lead to various symptoms, including difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, and restless sleep.
This activity may include experiencing difficulty sleeping, waking up through the night, or grabbing a caregiver’s leg while sleeping.

Physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches

With young people, one may notice that the child is expressing their anxiety in the form of a headache or even nausea and stomach aches.

Consequences and Causes of Separation Anxiety

Developmental milestones

Consequently, children develop a sense of alienation from the object, and this is evidenced in separation anxiety, as is with children in the process of forming a self.

Stressful events –  separation anxiety may occur because of a change in the environment, a change of situation, beginning school, or even moving to a new house.
Attachment styles – It is also suggested that children with insecure styles of attachment could experience more separation anxiety.
Managing this kind of anxiety in kids requires some tips to ensure that they can be dealt with easily.

Create a predictable routine

Imagine a child knowing in advance what will happen per day or having a planned schedule and routine activities. That consistency can bring the notion of security, thereby lowering the rates of anxiety.

Set an eating and sleeping schedule, besides other activities, to be done within a certain period.

The relative routine makes your child feel as if they can count on something, and thus, they feel less stressed about changes.

Gradual separation

Consider this as the soft version of your apartness. Begin with short separations, for instance, when a partner has to step out of the bedroom for five minutes or half an hour and then build up. Performing these acts enables the child to come to terms with their lack of interaction with you in the manner they wish to do it.

Positive reinforcement

It’s logical to encourage your child’s bravery. It would help if you reinforced these behaviours by praising or rewarding your child whenever they play alone or say goodbye without crying. The positive reinforcement inspires them to keep on with the progress that they have made.

Open communication

Think of the situation where you are having a heart-to-heart talk concerning a certain issue with your child. Speak to them regarding how they are feeling and reassure them that it is ok to feel nervous. Remind the patient of the fact that you still love them and are still with them.

Seek professional help if needed. Seek professional help if needed.
However, if separation anxiety is real and causes or affects your child in any way, don’t wait to seek the assistance of a professional.

It’s best to see a child psychologist or child therapist because they’ll recommend the best guidance for a child with anxiety.

If your child struggles with separation anxiety, here are some ways to support your child and help them overcome fears.

Role-playing
Picture yourself with your child, and you are what you are not; you are pretending to be something you are not. It is recommended to rehearse parting and coming back home, role-playing various situations for the child to comfort him during the time of separation. This circumstance can make the true divorce less frightening and novel.

Create a transitional object

Imagine a teddy bear or a blanket that your child cannot let go of. It can be comforting and safe during separations and have your smell on it, or it can have your smell made on it during your time with the child.

Involve your child in the separation process to improve your child the separation process.

Try to imagine your child feeling empowered or involved. This confidence can be allowing a child to assist in packing their bag for school or daycare or selecting an activity for the caregiver to carry out with a child. It can make it easier to accept being left behind and feel like the decision was made on purpose.

Stay positive and calm

Your attitude matters. Each child is capable of feeling your temper. It will make them feel safe in their skin; thus, being calm and confident will make them learn and grow.

Reassure your child

Make sure that they are aware of your affection toward them and your promise to see them again shortly. Never commit to do something you cannot deliver because it will be unfaithful to your word.

Be patient

Do not despair if your child takes time to go to school or, in this case, preschool. Be understanding and patient.

Connect with other parents

Connect with virtual families where parents share what they are going through. Having contact with other parents who faced similar problems is very helpful, as they can offer their support, encouragement, and tips.

Listening to other parents, as well as telling them what you have been experiencing, does make someone feel less isolated and more empowered to support their child.

Strategies for Parents

Gradual Exposure

Short separations-  Start with brief separations, such as leaving the room for a few minutes while your child is playing. Gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable.
Trusted caregivers –  Introduce your child to trusted caregivers gradually, ensuring they feel safe and secure with these individuals.
Consistent Routines:
Predictability – Establish consistent daily routines, including bedtimes, mealtimes, and playtime. This provides a sense of security and predictability.
Goodbye rituals – Create a special goodbye ritual, such as a hug, a kiss, or a specific phrase, to help your child feel prepared for separation.
Open Communication:
Active listening – Validate your child’s feelings and concerns without dismissing them. Show empathy and understanding.
Reassurance – Assure your child that you will return and that they are safe. Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain the situation.

Positive Reinforcement

Rewards – Praise your child for coping with separations, even if it’s sleep challenges in preschoolers. This positive reinforcement can boost their confidence.
Celebration – Celebrate small victories, such as going to school without excessive distress. This can help your child feel proud of their progress.
Seek Professional Help.
Therapy – If separation anxiety is significantly impacting your child’s life, consider consulting a child psychologist or therapist. They can provide specialized guidance and support.

Additional Tips

• Avoid prolonging goodbyes –  Quick, positive goodbyes can reduce anxiety.
• Stay calm – Your child can sense your emotions. Remaining calm can help them feel more at ease.
• Encourage independence – Support your child’s efforts to become more independent, such as dressing themselves or packing their own bag.

By implementing these strategies, you can help your child manage separation anxiety and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Remember, patience and understanding are key to supporting your child’s emotional well-being.

Separation anxiety is considered one of the typical developmental milestones that early childhood children and their parents experience. After knowing the reasons and good measures, the parents can assist the kids to overcome this normal developmental stage.

Also, male role models are important to embrace in all families, for they assist in helping the child get over the separation anxiety.