We deal with it from time to time in the preschool ministry here at Northwood - separation anxiety. I was reading an article on separation anxiety yesterday - here’s some of what I found…
Separation anxiety is normal ! Don’t think there is a problem with the church or daycare just because your child has separation anxiety. As a matter of fact, toddlers may be fine for months but suddenly become terrified at the thought of mom or dad leaving. It is a normal part of development! Here are some tips I found that may help you out!
1. When parents bring a child to preschool or to the church, they should say goodbye and leave the room.
I know it’s harder for you as a parent to do than it is for me to say, but it really does help. We see it all the time. Parents who bring their children to our nursery and make a quick exit, have much happier preschoolers than those who wait with their child to make sure “they are alright.” Trust me - they will be. If not, you’ll be the first to know. Our security procedures are in place to make sure they are safe and comfortable here at Northwood. If they cry for more than 5 - 10 minutes, we will come get you immediately.
2. Parents should always reassure their child that they will return.
You, as the parent, need to reassure your child when you bring them to our Preschool Ministry or to daycare during the week, that you will return. Here at Northwood, when your child becomes upset because he “wants mom,” the first thing we do is reassure him that you will be here soon! It goes a long way in bringing comfort to a preschooler.
3. Parents can help their preschooler see church or daycare as a fun place to play, rather than a place where Mom and Dad leave.
Parents need to talk to their children about how fun church or daycare is throughout the week, on a regular basis. Explain to your preschooler that she will get to see her friends at church or daycare. Preschoolers need your assurance that where they are going is a safe, fun place. The way you present church or daycare to your preschooler in normal conversation can “make or break” your preschooler’s experience at church or daycare.
We, here at Northwood, want you to know that we care about your preschooler. We provide them with a safe, clean, fun place each week! We also want you to be comfortable leaving your preschooler. If there is anything I can do to help make this happen, please let me know. You can click here to get in touch!
