Starting preschool is a major milestone—not just for your child, but for you as a parent. While it’s a time filled with new experiences, growth, and friendships, it’s also one of the first times many young children spend extended time away from their primary caregivers. For some families, this transition goes smoothly. For others, it may come with tears, clinging, or a heavy sense of guilt. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
Separation anxiety is a perfectly normal stage of emotional development in young children. The good news? With some understanding, patience, and a few practical strategies, both you and your child can navigate this transition with confidence. At Open Doors Preschool, we’ve helped hundreds of families through this very challenge, and we’re here to help you too.
What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety typically begins between 8 and 14 months but can resurface or intensify during major transitions—like starting preschool. It manifests in behaviors like crying at drop-off, refusing to let go of a parent, physical complaints (tummy aches, etc.), or a strong insistence on staying home.
While it can be heartbreaking to watch, separation anxiety is a sign that your child has formed a healthy attachment to you. The real work lies in helping them feel secure enough to trust that you’ll always return, even when you’re apart.
Why Preschool Can Trigger Anxiety
Preschool is a brand-new environment: new faces, new routines, and new expectations. It can be both exciting and overwhelming. For a child who has spent most of their time in the comfort of home or with familiar caregivers, the shift can feel abrupt.
Children thrive on predictability. When their world suddenly includes unfamiliar adults and peers, it can challenge their sense of safety. Add to that their still-developing emotional regulation skills, and it’s no surprise that anxiety can show up.
Tips for Parents: How to Ease the Transition
1. Talk About Preschool Positively
Speak about school as a fun, safe place to explore, learn, and make new friends. Avoid emphasizing how much you’ll miss your child—instead, focus on what they can look forward to.
Example: “You get to play with blocks, paint, and sing songs with your new friends today!”
2. Create a Consistent Morning Routine
Routine brings comfort. Establish a predictable routine that includes time to get ready, a healthy breakfast, and a consistent goodbye ritual.
Tip: Keep goodbyes short and sweet. Lingering often increases anxiety. A hug, a kiss, and a confident “Have a great day!” works wonders.
3. Start with Short Separations
If possible, practice short separations before preschool starts. Leave your child with a trusted caregiver while you run errands. This builds their confidence in your return.
4. Visit the School Together
Most preschools, including Open Doors Preschool, offer orientation days or trial visits. Spend time exploring the classroom with your child to make the space feel more familiar.
5. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Let your child know it’s okay to feel sad or nervous. Validate their emotions without lingering on them.
Say: “I know it’s hard to say goodbye. It’s okay to feel that way. I’ll be back to pick you up after snack time.”
6. Send a Comfort Object
A favorite stuffed animal or a small photo of the family can provide emotional comfort during the day. Check with the school about what’s allowed.
7. Stay Calm and Confident
Children pick up on our emotions. If you’re visibly nervous or upset, they’re more likely to feel that way too. Model the behavior you want them to mirror.
8. Communicate with Teachers
Let the teachers know if your child is experiencing separation anxiety. At Open Doors Preschool, our staff is trained to gently support children through emotional transitions. We can offer extra comfort and update you on your child’s progress.
How Teachers and Preschool Staff Help
Early childhood educators are more than teachers—they’re emotional anchors during a child’s first big steps toward independence. Experienced teachers can:
- Redirect a child’s attention to fun activities
- Offer one-on-one support during drop-offs
- Pair your child with a buddy
- Reinforce routine and structure
Our staff at Open Doors Preschool makes it a priority to form strong, trusting relationships with every child. This sense of security reduces anxiety and helps children settle in faster.
The Role of Emotional Development
Separation anxiety is tied closely to emotional development. With positive experiences and consistent support, your child will build resilience. They learn to trust that they can navigate new situations, solve problems, and express their feelings.
Through play-based learning, social interaction, and caring adult guidance, children gradually develop self-regulation skills and emotional awareness. What feels hard today becomes tomorrow’s strength.
When to Seek Extra Help
While some level of separation anxiety is normal, persistent or severe symptoms may need further attention. If your child:
- Continues to show extreme distress weeks into school
- Has trouble sleeping or eating
- Displays regression (bedwetting, baby talk, etc.)
- Becomes overly withdrawn
… it may be helpful to speak with your child’s teacher, pediatrician, or a child psychologist. Early intervention can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Parenting is full of moments that tug at your heart. The first day of preschool is one of them. But it’s also the beginning of a beautiful journey—one that builds independence, confidence, and curiosity in your child.
At Open Doors Preschool, we understand the emotional rollercoaster that comes with letting go, even just for a few hours. Our community is here to walk alongside you, offering expert care, guidance, and a warm, welcoming environment that feels like a second home.
Ready to Support Your Child’s Next Step?
If you’re preparing for the preschool transition and want support that goes beyond academics, we invite you to connect with us. Our compassionate staff, play-based curriculum, and family-focused approach are here to make this step smoother for both you and your child.
Contact Open Doors Preschool today to learn more or schedule a visit. Let’s open the door to a joyful, confident preschool experience—together.
