At Action Day Schools, We Care About Your Child’s Emotional Journey
As parents, it’s natural to feel a little heartache when your baby experiences separation anxiety. Rest assured, this phase is a normal part of your infant’s emotional development. At Action Day Schools, we are here to help both you and your child navigate this challenging yet important stage.
What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a common developmental milestone where infants begin to feel distress when separated from their parents or caregivers. This typically starts around 6-9 months and can continue into toddlerhood, especially when starting daycare or preschool. It reflects the growing bond between your child and their caregivers.
Signs of Separation Anxiety in Infants (0-2 years)
- Crying or clinging when you leave
- A sudden change in mood or behavior
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- A desire for extra comfort, like a favorite toy or blanket
- Being more cautious or fearful around new people
How We Support Your Child During This Time
At Action Day Schools, we understand that separation anxiety can be tough for both infants and their families. Here’s how we help ease the transition:
- Primary Caregivers: We assign a primary caregiver to each child, ensuring that one teacher builds a strong, trusting bond with your child. This familiarity helps reduce anxiety and provides a sense of comfort and security throughout the day.
- Warm and Responsive Care: Our caregivers are trained to respond to your child’s cues with comfort and understanding, creating a secure attachment.
- Comfortable Environment: Our classrooms are designed to feel familiar and safe, helping infants feel more at ease when transitioning into the day.
- Consistent Routines: Predictable schedules and activities help your child feel a sense of security and control over their environment.
- Separation Rituals: We work with you to establish special “goodbye” routines that help ease the separation process, such as a quick hug or a wave.
Tips for Parents
While we support your child here, your involvement plays a vital role in their emotional growth. Here are some helpful tips for parents to manage separation anxiety:
- Be Calm and Confident: Children pick up on your emotions. If you feel calm and confident about the separation, your child will sense that reassurance.
- Consistent Goodbyes: Keep goodbyes short, sweet, and positive. This creates a predictable routine and helps your child feel secure.
- Practice Separations: If possible, practice short separations at home to build confidence.
- Stay Consistent with Drop-offs: A predictable routine at drop-off time helps your child build trust in the process.
We’re Here for You Every Step of the Way
Our team at Action Day Schools is committed to supporting both you and your child as you navigate this important developmental phase. If you ever have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to listen and guide you.
Together, we’ll help your child grow and thrive!
