Separation anxiety is a natural part of a child’s development, but it can be a stressful experience for both children and their parents.

Whether you are dealing with separation anxiety in a young child who is heading off to preschool or an older child who is going away to college, there are things you can do to help your child feel more secure and confident.

1. Start Small

If your child is experiencing separation anxiety, try to start with small separations before moving on to bigger ones.

For example, you might start by leaving your child with a caregiver for a short period of time, such as 30 minutes, before gradually increasing the time apart. This can help your child build confidence and trust.

2. Reassure Your Child

It’s important to reassure your child that you will be back and that you love them. Make sure you say goodbye, and explain that you will be back before they know it.

Additionally, it can help to have a consistent routine and to follow through with your promises – this can help build trust with your child and help them feel more secure when they are apart from you.

3. Develop a Goodbye Ritual

A goodbye ritual can help reassure your child that they will be okay when you are apart. It can be something as simple as a special hug or kiss, or a phrase you say to your child every time you leave.

This can be a comforting routine that your child can carry with them throughout the day, and it can help them feel more secure.

4. Don’t Sneak Away

It might be tempting to sneak away while your child is distracted, but this can actually make things worse. Instead, say a proper goodbye and remind your child when you will be back.

Sneaking away can cause your child to feel anxious and worried, and can make it harder for them to trust you in the future.

5. Talk to Your Child

It’s important to listen to your child and hear their concerns. Talk to them about their fears and worries, and try to reassure them that you will always be there for them.

Additionally, be open to talking to your child’s teacher or caregiver – they may be able to provide insights and recommendations for addressing your child’s anxiety.

6. Encourage Independence

Encouraging your child to be independent can help them feel more confident when they are away from you. For example, you might encourage your child to choose their own clothes or pack their own backpack.

This can give them a sense of control and help them feel more capable, which can alleviate some of their anxiety.

7. Provide Comfort Objects

Comfort objects, such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket, can help your child feel more secure when they are away from you.

Let your child choose a special comfort object that they can take with them wherever they go, and remind them that it’s always there to keep them safe and comforted when they’re feeling anxious or alone.

8. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Encourage your child to practice positive self-talk when they are feeling anxious.

Help them come up with positive affirmations, such as “I am brave” or “I can do this,” and encourage them to repeat these phrases to themselves when they are feeling worried or unsure.

9. Be Patient

Remember, overcoming separation anxiety takes time and patience. Be patient with your child, and with yourself.

It’s okay if it takes some time for your child to feel comfortable with separations – just keep working on building trust and confidence, and eventually things will get easier.

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If your child’s separation anxiety is severe and interfering with their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help.

A mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, can help your child work through their anxiety and develop strategies for coping with separations.