What can I do to help ease my child’s separation anxiety?
It’s very normal for children (and parents) to have feelings of anxiety when they first start school. Children take time to get used to their new routine, build positive relationships with their educators and peers. Over time, they will come to understand that their new environment is a fun, safe, and happy place. Supporting children with separation anxiety can be challenging; however, just remember that this stage will soon pass, and that most children are quite settled within a few minutes of their families leaving. If you are ever concerned, you are always welcome to call us to check in on your child, or book a meeting with us to discuss additional support for settling your child.
Tips to Ease Separation Anxiety
- Bring your child on the initial school tour so they develop a sense of familiarity
- Talk positively about the exciting things they will experience, play with, and learn at school
- Involve your child in choosing, organising, and labelling the items they will take with them to school
- Talk about their new routine and what to expect in the lead up to starting school
- Attend the orientation session with your child to help them settle into their new environment
- Talk about the emotions they may experience and how they can help manage their feelings
- Read stories about starting school
- Establish a quick goodbye ritual where you leave smiling, calm, and confident to build your child’s confidence and sense of security in their new environment
- Be consistent with drop off and pick up times so your child becomes familiar with their new routines and knows what to expect
- Practice being apart by leaving your child with a trusted adult or family member for a few hours
How can I check in to see if my child has settled?
Families are welcome to call the school to check in on their child at any time throughout the day. Our team will always provide you with open and honest feedback about how your child is settling in. If your child is unsettled, rest assured that an educator will contact you, and advise you if you need to pick them up. Families also receive regular photo updates throughout the day. These updates show what activities your child is engaging in as well as their eating, sleeping, and toileting schedule.
How long will it take for my child to settle in?
Every child is different when it comes to settling into school. Some children settle within a few days, others within weeks, and some may be unsettled at drop-off for a longer period of time. There are many factors that affect a child’s settling time, including their personality type, learned behaviours, separation anxiety, enrolment pattern, age and stage of development, and what’s happening in other areas of their life. If you have any concerns about how your child is settling in, please talk to your admissions manager or school leader. They will work with you to help your child make a smooth and happy transition to their new school environment.