Four practical ways to help your child with separation anxiety: don't sneak away, create a goodbye ritual, stay calm yourself, and practice short separations. Each one works better than pretending you're not leaving.
Separation anxiety. It's hard. Here are four tips to help. Number one don't sneak away. I know you want to avoid the tears, but sneaking away actually increases the anxiety and breaks the trust. Number two have a goodbye ritual. Keep it simple. A quick hug, kiss, and a reminder that they're safe and loved. Then don't linger. Go ahead and walk out. Be confident as you do it. That leads to the next tip. Tip number three don't get overly emotional. Remember, little ones mirror our emotions. When we're calm and confident, that conveys to them that everything's okay. And finally, tip number four Practice small separations. When Grandma's visiting or another caregiver is present, run a quick errand. Take a walk around the block. This shows them that other caregivers really can meet their needs, too.
