Health Tip: Soothing Separation Anxiety

Suggestions to help your child

(HealthDay News) -- Many young children have difficulty leaving their parents when it's time for school, work or a parental date night.

Helpguide.org offers this advice on how to make separating from your child less stressful for you both:

  • Don't put off separating from your child, such as leaving the youngster with a sitter. The younger your child is when he or she gets used to separating, the easier the transition is likely to be.
  • Start separating from your child slowly and gradually to build up tolerance.
  • Make sure your child is well-rested and fed when transitioning to a caregiver.
  • When you can, keep your child in a familiar environment.
  • Devise a consistent ritual for separating from your child.
  • Use the same caregiver, if possible, and introduce your child in advance.
  • Stay calm and relaxed, and don't drag out the goodbye. Make it clear that you'll be back.

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