For many parents and early childhood educators, the tearful goodbyes at drop-off have become a familiar—and heart-wrenching—scene. Separation anxiety is a normal part of development, but in recent years, more families are reporting prolonged or intense episodes that make daily transitions more difficult. At Brookshire Learning Center, we understand how emotionally challenging this experience can be for both children and caregivers. The good news? With the right strategies, compassion, and consistency, separation anxiety can become a stepping stone—not a stumbling block—in your child’s emotional growth.
Why Separation Anxiety Is on the Rise
Recent shifts in family routines, increased time at home due to the pandemic, and growing awareness of emotional needs have all contributed to higher rates of separation anxiety in toddlers and preschoolers. According to Zero to Three, separation anxiety typically peaks between 18 months and 3 years but can intensify during periods of change or stress such as starting daycare, a new sibling’s arrival, or even changes in parents’ work schedules.
What Separation Anxiety Looks Like
While these behaviors are developmentally normal, they can feel overwhelming for families and early educators alike. Separation anxiety may show up in different ways:
- Crying, clinging, or tantrums at drop-off
- Refusal to go to school or daycare
- Physical complaints like stomachaches
- Regression in toilet training or sleep
- Increased need for reassurance or physical closeness
How Brookshire Learning Center Supports Children with Separation Anxiety
At Brookshire, we approach separation anxiety with empathy, patience, and a plan. Our educators are trained to ease transitions and help children feel secure even in uncertain moments. Here’s how we support children and families:
- Gentle Drop-Off Rituals: Short, predictable goodbyes help children know what to expect.
- Visual Schedules: A clear routine helps children understand when parents will return.
- Comfort Items: Children may bring a favorite stuffed animal or family photo.
- Calm, Caring Staff: Our teachers acknowledge children’s feelings and offer comfort without judgment.
- Parent Communication: We provide updates and photos so parents feel connected and reassured.
What Parents Can Do to Help
Consistency between home and daycare is key to easing separation anxiety. Here are simple, effective strategies parents can try:
- Practice Separation in Small Steps: Start with short separations at home or with familiar caregivers, gradually increasing the time apart.
- Create a Goodbye Ritual: A hug, a wave at the window, or a special phrase (“See you after snack!”) creates security.
- Keep Goodbyes Brief and Confident: Lingering or sneaking out can actually make anxiety worse. Calmly say goodbye and stick to it.
- Talk About What Will Happen: Use language like: “You’ll play with your friends, have snack time, and I’ll be back after circle time.”
- Use Books and Stories: Children often relate to characters who feel the same way they do.
Try: The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn; Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney; Owl Babies by Martin Waddell
- Validate Feelings, Then Redirect: “It’s okay to feel sad. Let’s find a book to read with your teacher.”
Separation anxiety is not a sign that something’s wrong instead it’s a sign that your child is learning to form strong emotional bonds. At Brookshire Learning Center, we partner with families to navigate these early challenges with warmth, structure, and understanding.
With time, reassurance, and supportive routines, children learn that goodbyes are temporary—and that they’re safe, loved, and capable.
Need more support? Contact us or schedule a tour. We’re here to help both you and your child feel confident every step of the way.