Separation from the Parent

The process of separation from the parent as the child enters and attends preschool is one of the most important accomplishments of the preschool child.

At each age level, a child will react differently. As children mature, they begin to identify themselves as independent personalities. In separating from you, the parent, your child is learning:

• To develop an interest in the activities of the preschool.
• To feel comfortable with others at preschool.
• To understand that his/her parent will come back and pick him/her up.
• To understand that all parents leave their children and come back for them.
• To understand that parents often must concentrate in their own interests and duties which are separate and different from those of a child.

It is important to point out that sooner or later, after the initial successful adjustment at school is made all children want to explore the limits of not going to school. This period may occur in October or December or in Spring, but it usually lasts only a short time. When this occurs, here are some suggestions which may help you handle the situation:

• Place an emphasis on what the child is doing at school rather than what your activities are while he/she is in school.
• See that the child is involved in a specific activity or is in the hands of a teacher before you leave him/her.
• Tell the child when you are leaving. Avoid prolonged good-byes.
• Ask the teacher for help in separation. We expect the crying and usually the tears are for the parent's advantage.