It’s that time of the year again! Holidays are over!
Whilst there could be some emotional tears while waving goodbye, it is important that parents/custodians keep these few tips in mind in order to avoid separation anxiety from both parties.
- Talk about school and get the routine going before school starts – Few months before school starts, it is important that you start to talk about school and also try to get them in the school routines and rules.
- Don’t prolong the goodbyes or go back for one last hug! – Prolonging the goodbyes can give the child a sense of insecurity, that the place is not safe and this can create unnecessary anxiety.
- Don’t sneak out! – Rather is it best that one creates a routine of a goodbye that is more effective. Sneaking out will affect the trusting issues.
- Have a hug/kiss routine – Something fun and very helpful is that you and the child have your own way of saying goodbye that creates a unique bond. If needs be, even give the child a comfort object that will make her/him feel safe.
- Involve the teacher – Let the teacher know any necessary information that would help him/her build a better relationship with the child. Moreover seeing that there is a relationship between the teacher and you will give the child a more sense of security.
- Talk to the child about the time you will pick him/her up – It is important that you explain to the child that you are going to pick him/her up and at what time. This will give the reassurance that the child needs that you will be back.
Therisa is a psychology graduate who worked in the HR sector for the past 4 years. She decided to change her career path and thus is at present an intern at willingness and will continue to focus on psychology practices.