Welcome! I’m Kelly, a licensed school counselor and educator with years of experience helping children and families navigate the ups and downs of parenting. I understand firsthand the daily challenges, worries, and joys of raising children.
My goal is to offer practical, compassionate strategies that make parenting a little easier. Whether you’re looking for helpful tools, reassuring guidance, or relatable stories from someone who’s been there, you’ll find encouragement here.
Remember, you’re not alone — I’m here to support you in building confidence and clarity on your parenting journey.
Separation anxiety can be a challenging experience for both children and the adults supporting them. Whether it happens at school drop-off, daycare, or even when saying goodbye at home, these moments of distress can feel overwhelming. As parents and caregivers, we want to ease their fears while also encouraging independence. The good news is that there are simple, effective ways to help children feel more secure during separations.
1. Validate Their Feelings
Let your child know that it’s okay to feel scared or unsure. A simple phrase like, “It’s normal to feel this way, and I am here to help you,” can go a long way in making them feel understood and supported. Acknowledging their emotions helps build trust and reassures them that their feelings are valid.
2. Normalize Their Experience
Explain that separation anxiety is a natural response and that many kids feel the same way at some point. Emphasize that their feelings don’t mean they’re weak or incapable — it’s just how our brains work to keep us safe. Knowing they’re not alone in their experience can help reduce feelings of shame or isolation.
3. Teach Them About Their Brain
Helping children understand why they feel anxious can be empowering. Explain that their brain is trying to protect them, even when there’s no real danger. Let them know that, with practice, they can train their brain to respond differently and feel more at ease during separations.
4. Create a Happy Place in Their Mind
Encourage your child to think of a happy moment or a place where they feel completely safe and at peace. Have them close their eyes and visualize it when they feel unsure. This mental escape can help regulate their emotions and bring a sense of calm during difficult moments.
5. Pick a Word or Reminder of Safety
Help your child choose a special word, phrase, or image that brings them comfort. Explain that when their brain tricks them into feeling unsafe, they can use this reminder to ground themselves. Repeating their word or focusing on their image can reinforce the idea that they are safe and capable.
6. Keep a Physical Reminder
A small tangible object, like a rock, bracelet, or key chain, can serve as a reassuring anchor for your child. Have them write or draw their safe word or image on the object and keep it in their pocket. Whenever they feel nervous, they can hold onto it as a reminder that they are safe and strong.
Closing Thoughts
Separation anxiety isn’t something that disappears overnight, but with patience and the right tools, children can build resilience and confidence. The goal isn’t to eliminate their anxiety completely but to help them develop coping skills that will support them as they grow. By validating their emotions, normalizing their experiences, and providing simple strategies, we can empower them to navigate these moments with greater ease.
While these techniques can significantly ease separation anxiety for many children, if anxiety persists or impacts daily functioning, consulting a professional can provide additional support.
If you’ve tried any of these techniques or have your own go-to strategies, I’d love to hear about them! Let’s support one another in helping our children feel secure, confident, and ready to take on the world.
Warmly,
Kelly