Separation Anxiety (English Version)

    Toddlers and young children often cling and cry if you or their other caregiver leaves them, even for a short time. Separation anxiety is children's fear when they meet a stranger they have not met before. It is common in young children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. 

 A. Why does Separation anxiety occur? 

    Assume that your child in a quiet room. Then you left the room and they were happy to be held captive by a stranger. It would seem unreasonable. isn't it? What you think is that they start crying every time you are not there or a stranger nearby or both. But the anxiety of separation is a sign that your child is now realizing that they are dependent on the person watching. Take care of them. That could include grandparents or professionals who are closely involved with their care as well as their parents. As they become more aware of their surroundings, your child's strong relationship with this small group means they will not feel very secure without you. Increasing their awareness of what is around them can also make them feel insecure or upset in new situations or with new people, even if you are there. 

B. How to deal with anxiety from Separation anxiety 

    Separation anxiety can make you feel difficult to keep your child in kindergarten or in a nursing home. You may feel pity for your children because of their tears, and it may be hard to accept every time your child leaves you. Each. It is only natural for your child to feel anxious without you, so there is no reason for you to feel depressed when you have to deal with other parts of your life. In fact, the anxiety of separation is usually a sign that you have a good relationship with your children. Instead, focus on helping your child understand and deal with their emotions so they feel safer. They will learn that if you leave them, they will be fine and you will come back. If your child is old enough, you can talk to them about what is happening, where you are going, and when you will be with them again. By leaving your child with other caregivers, you will not harm them. You are really helping them learn to live without you and that is an important step towards their independence. 

C. Tips for breaking down anxiety 

 1. Practice short breaks from your child to begin with You can start by leaving them in someone else’s care for a few minutes while you go to the store or market. Keep your child with someone they know well so they still feel comfortable and safe in your absence. Gradually work towards a longer separation and then leave them in an unfamiliar setting. 

2. Talk about what you will do together later Talk to your toddler about what you will do when you see them again so they have something to look forward to with you. For example, you could say: When Mummy comes back to pick you up, we will go to the store together for dinner. 

 3. Keep what you and your child enjoy doing together It can comfort your child to have something familiar with you, such as your scented handkerchief or your favorite toy nearby. This can ensure that they feel reunited with you when you are away. Another good example is to tell the kid a story. it is simple. Just represent their favorite toys with the name of you, your child, teacher and friends. Then give motivation to the toy that represent your child doing in class, making friends, brave to be without mommy or daddy until the class ends. Tell the children they can do it.

 4. Make goodbye mean positive when you leave your child, whether sad or depressed, you may feel a smile and wave goodbye confidently and happily, otherwise they will only increase the stress. By giving your child a farewell experience, then a happy reunion, you are teaching them an important life lesson.