It’s Back to School Time in Oklahoma. Are You Ready for Potential Separation Anxiety?

Easing back-to-school separation anxiety.

We are headed back to school soon and this can cause mixed emotions in both parents and children. Both feelings of joy for a new routine of cognitive stimulation and negative feelings of being apart are normal.  If you find yourself or your child struggling with the thought of back to school separation, here are some ways to make sure everyone feels comfortable with all the anxieties that can come with a new school year.

What are Signs of Anxiety in my Child?

Your child may:

• Refuse to get ready for school
• Complain of a tummy ache
• Fuss about not having any friends
• Cry and/or cling at drop off
• Refuse to participate once at school

What are Signs of Struggle for Parents?

Parents may:

• Prolong the “goodbye”
• Cave to multiple goodbyes
• Take extra time telling the teacher about your child
• Try leaving without saying goodbye
• Get frustrated when your child cries

What Can You Do to Help the Situation?

• Let your child know how you are feeling.  When we put on a “front”, our child can sense this and it raises their anxiety.
• Let your child know it is ok to feel scared or sad but they can still attend school.
• Reconnect with your child with some one-on-one time after school.
• Remember that your child will look to you for guidance. It is important to be prepared and give encouraging support.

Remember:

Separation anxiety and fear of a new school year can appear at any age.  Do not be alarmed if your child previously had a great year and is now showing anxiety with the upcoming school year.  This can be due to a new developmental period your child is going through.  It can also happen because of a life change at home (new house, divorce, new baby, etc. ). Keep a positive outlook and support your child with reassurance.  We wish you and your family the best school year in 2023-2024!