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How parents and children can deal with back-to-school separation anxiety

While the back-to-school period can be an exciting time for both children and parents, a leading psychologist is offering expert advice on how to deal with a common problem, especially in Preps. Here’s her tips for worried parents.

Sebastian, 5, with mum Lucky, Alexandra, 6, with mum Maria and Melanie with her son Noah, 5 are all school ready. Picture: George Salpigtidis
Sebastian, 5, with mum Lucky, Alexandra, 6, with mum Maria and Melanie with her son Noah, 5 are all school ready. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Parents lingering at the school gate on their child’s first day of school could be making the transition tougher, according to a leading psychologist.

Aphrodite Zoitas who specialised in emotional, behavioural and developmental issues among children and adolescents said both parents and children often suffered from separation anxiety during the back-to-school period.

“Separation anxiety is an issue that many parents will face and it can be incredibly challenging for everyone involved,” she said.

“It can start as early as six months and usually reaches its peak at some point in the first two years of a child’s life.

“It is often characterised by feelings of fear and uncertainty and these same big emotions can resurface, particularly in the lead-up to kindergarten or school.”

Bundoora mother-of-three Maria Ligerakis said she would be adopting a “kiss, go and return” approach when her daughter Alexandra started prep this year.

“For many parents, watching their little one take their first steps beyond the school is an emotional time – they just want to hang on to them for a little bit longer but are also excited about the new adventures that await,” she said.

“Children are very astute and will know if you are feeling distressed or teary and this can trigger more tears all around.

Maria Ligerakis with her daughter Alexandra, 6. Picture: George Salpigtidis
Maria Ligerakis with her daughter Alexandra, 6. Picture: George Salpigtidis

“It’s worthwhile giving your child a reassuring hug and a kiss, encouraging them to enjoy their day and letting them know that you will be back.”

HOW TO AVOID SEPARATION ANXIETY:

• Take advantage of buddy programs offered at schools.

• Allow your child to choose their own lunch box or drink bottle and get them involved in the back-to-school process.

• Label books and apply bag tags while talking about starting school.

• Introduce your child to their new routine and give it a test run.

• Encourage your child to prepare for their first day of school by trying on their uniform and setting aside their clothes, bag and books.

• Avoid rushing. Allow extra time for your child to adopt their new routine.

• Keep things lighthearted and fun on the first day.

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• If your child is particularly anxious or upset, consider giving them a special item to remind them of family or home.

• Talk to your child’s teacher or caregiver about how to best support your child.

• Boost your child’s self-esteem by offering lots of praise and positive attention.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/how-parents-and-children-can-deal-with-backtoschool-separation-anxiety/news-story/234cc1097b4f7fe52280ddd84825e83d