Starting preschool is an exciting milestone, but for many children—and their parents—it can also bring about a wave of emotions. One of the most common challenges in early childhood education is separation anxiety. Whether it’s the first day or the first month, many young children feel overwhelmed when saying goodbye to their parents. The good news? With empathy, consistency, and teamwork, parents and teachers can ease the transition and help children build the confidence they need to thrive.
Separation anxiety is a natural part of development. It’s a sign that a child has formed a healthy bond with their caregiver. However, when not addressed gently and consistently, it can make the preschool experience stressful for everyone involved. That’s why collaboration between home and school is essential. When children see that their parents and teachers are on the same page, they feel safer and more secure in their new environment.
Here are three key strategies parents and teachers can use to support children through this important transition:
1. Create a Consistent Goodbye Routine
Children thrive on predictability. A simple, loving routine can help your child feel more secure when it’s time to say goodbye.
- Parents can choose a short ritual like a special handshake, a hug and a wave, or a cheerful phrase like “See you after snack time!”
- Teachers can support this by gently redirecting the child’s attention after the goodbye, engaging them in a familiar activity or comforting them with a calm presence.
- It’s important that once the routine is established, it’s followed consistently—even if tears are involved. Lingering or returning after saying goodbye can increase anxiety.
By keeping goodbyes short, sweet, and consistent, you show your child that preschool is a safe space and that you will return, just like you always do.
2. Build Trust Through Communication and Connection
Open communication between parents and teachers builds a strong support system for children experiencing anxiety.
- Parents can share what helps calm their child at home or provide comfort items like a small stuffed toy or family photo.
- Teachers can offer reassurance by sending updates during the day, describing how the child is adjusting or participating in class activities.
- Teachers can also build relationships with children by learning their interests and giving them extra attention during transitions.
When children feel connected to their teachers and know their parents are in touch with what’s happening, they are more likely to settle in and feel comfortable exploring their new environment.
3. Normalize Feelings and Celebrate Progress
It’s important for both parents and educators to validate a child’s feelings and celebrate even small steps forward.
- Let children know it’s okay to feel sad or nervous and that many kids feel the same way when they start preschool.
- Praise small wins like walking into the classroom without crying, participating in circle time, or saying goodbye with a smile.
- Read books at home and in class about separation and emotions—stories like The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn can be powerful tools for comfort and understanding.
As children gain more exposure to their new routine and begin to form relationships with peers and teachers, their confidence grows—and separation anxiety often fades.
Final Thoughts
Handling separation anxiety in preschoolers is a journey, not a one-day fix. But with patience, empathy, and teamwork between parents and educators, children can build resilience and develop a positive attitude toward school. Remember, each child is unique—what works for one might not work for another—but with consistent support and a loving environment, even the most anxious preschooler can learn to feel safe and happy in their home away from home.