The Therapy Minute
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Is your child already worried about going back to school?
Although summer has just begun, many children and parents are already thinking about the transition to preschool or kindergarten. If your child becomes anxious about being away from you, you are not alone. Separation anxiety is common, and there are ways to help build confidence before the first day.
Here are three simple ways to prepare:
Talk about school. Read books about starting school, look at a calendar together, and encourage your child to ask questions. Let them know it’s okay to have mixed feelings about a new experience.
Make school familiar. Visit the school’s website, drive by the building, or attend an open house if possible. Familiarity helps reduce anxiety.
Practice through play. Use dolls, stuffed animals, or pretend play to act out going to school, saying goodbye, riding the bus, and coming home again. Children often process worries through play before they can put them into words.
If your child’s anxiety is making the transition to school feel overwhelming, a few sessions of play therapy or sand tray therapy over the summer can help build confidence, coping skills, and comfort with separation in a safe, supportive environment.
Wishing all families a smooth and confident start to the new school year!