School can be a big adjustment for kids. They are suddenly thrust into a new environment, with new people and new rules. It’s no wonder most children become anxious.

But it’s perfectly normal for your child to feel anxious about leaving you and venturing into the unknown world of the classroom. However, some children may experience more significant separation anxiety that can interfere with their ability to adjust to school.

Separation anxiety in children

Separation anxiety is one of the most common anxiety disorders children face. According to researchers, 1 to 4 percent of all children experience separation anxiety. Separation anxiety disorder, or SAD, is the term used to describe this condition. It usually begins around 8 – 12 months of age, when babies become more aware of their surroundings and realize that their caregivers can leave them.

For most children, separation anxiety peaks around 18 – 24 months and then gradually dissipates. Some children may however continue to experience separation anxiety into preschool and beyond.

Causes of separation anxiety in children

Separation anxiety disorder occurs when a child becomes excessively anxious about being away from home or from the people they are attached to, such as parents or other caregivers. This can cause significant distress and interfere with the child’s ability to function at school, at home, or in other settings.

There are several causes of separation anxiety:

• A traumatic separation from a caregiver
• An insecure attachment to a caregiver
• A general feeling of insecurity
• Family dynamics

Symptoms of separation anxiety in children

Some children may display separation anxiety by:

• Clinging to their caregivers
• Severe and extreme crying
• Having tantrums when it is time to go to school.
• Trying to avoid school altogether by faking illness or refusing to go
• Dismal school performance
• Physical ailments, such as vomiting and headaches
• Having nightmares about separation

Children with separation anxiety disorder may also have other anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or specific phobias.

Going to school can exacerbate separation anxiety in children who are already prone to it. The stress of being in a new environment, away from familiar faces, can trigger anxiety symptoms. Children may worry that their caregivers will not come back to pick them up, or that they will get lost in the school building.

Ways to help your child overcome separation anxiety

At Pelican Point School, we understand how challenging this time can be for both parents and kids. That’s why we’ve put together some tips to help ease the anxiety and make the transition to school a little smoother.

The biggest way you can help prevent separation anxiety is to prepare your child for preschool. Make some of those unknowns less scary for them.

• Tour the preschool beforehand.
• Meet your child’s teacher.
• Talk about rules that the child will have in preschool.
• Role play a day at preschool using dolls or stuffed animals.
• Schedule a playdate with children in your child’s class before school starts.

If your child is experiencing separation anxiety, Pelican Point Preschool can help. We have a supportive and caring environment that is perfect for kids who are adjusting to school. Our experienced teachers and staff can help your child make friends and feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

Contact us today to learn more about our programs.