I think my 4 year old has seperation anxiety....?

Question

Everytime I take her to preschool she cries(but i know she loves it there because, she has tons of friends, does really fun projects, goes on field trips, etc). Her father and I haven't been together in a few years, but we try to remain friendly. He lives about 40 minutes from me, but they see each other on a regular basis. But when I drop her off she sheds the waterworks and cries for mommy. When her dad drops her off after his weekend with her, she sheds them again and cries for daddy. She also cries when my fiance(future step dad) leaves for work. What should I do? is this a phase or something else? This is fairly recent within two or three weeks.

Answer 1

It can be common for kids to cry when parents leave. I deal with it on a daily basis really at my preschool. I always tell the parents that it's harder on the parents then the children. most children cry only for a few minutes and then decide to go play. What I tell the parents at my school is this:  first- only say goodbye when you really mean it! If you say goodbye and stick around because they are crying, you are teaching your child that crying makes you stay. Spend a few minutes making sure they get settled in, and then say goodbye when YOU are ready and LEAVE!  Make sure you never sneak out, that you always say goodbye and I will come pick you up after work (or whatever the case may be). This allows your child to trust what you are saying and will teach your child that you mean what you say!

Sometimes talking about it on the way to school might help too. It can remind and prepare them for what is coming. but sometimes it just takes  time. If you are all working together (all parents, future parents, and teacher) for the best interest of your child, then you will see result!

Goodluck!