Separation anxiety in toddlers presents as extreme crying, tantrums, clinginess, and even regression when you leave them, such as dropping them off at their child care or preschool center. Since new experiences and socializing are critical components of child development that child care provides, it's crucial to help your toddler work through anxiety to easily handle the transition. The following are several tips to try if your toddler is struggling with separation anxiety.

How to Help Your Toddler With Separation Anxiety 

1. Start Slow

Ease your child into their new environment, instead of dropping them off on day one with no preparation. Work with the early childhood education center to arrange short visits and play dates where you stay with your kid while they explore and play.

2. Have a Routine

Create a routine, as structure is crucial for child development and security. Stick to healthy bed and breakfast times and develop a nightly prep routine where your toddler helps prepare for the next day. You can also make up a goodbye ritual for drop off, such as a secret handshake or short dance before you leave them at the center.

3. Leave Them With Comforting Reminders 

Give them a safe and reasonable trinket like a pebble or bracelet to take with them. Each night handle it in front of them and tell them you're putting love and positivity in it for them to have the next day. You can also leave little notes of encouragement in their lunches or backpack, or draw a heart on their hand or arm, so they see it and are reminded of you throughout the day.

4. Use Books & Shows That Cover It

Reading, watching, or listening to children’s materials about the first time away from home may help your child. They’ll recognize the similarities in the situation and be comforted that the parents come back in all the stories. It's also a perfect time to discuss it with your child and listen to their fears or concerns so you can soothe them.

5. Stick With It

It's hard to leave your child when they're crying, but their anxiety usually eases after a few weeks. If you stop taking them to child care because they're upset, you're setting a poor precedent, and it'll be more difficult when they go back. Use a support system to comfort you if you're struggling, try not to let your child detect you’re upset, and be patient and compassionate.

Another key step in handling separation anxiety is to find a child care center that will help you both make the transition. Great Beginnings in  Cottleville and St. Charles, MO, offers enriching early childhood education programs for kids of all ages. They're licensed by the state, and they'll work with you to help your child overcome their anxiety. Read more about their programs online, and call (636) 724-5048 to schedule a visit at the St. Charles location or (636) 447-4212 for Cottleville.