Usually, within a few minutes, the child is happily playing and the ladybug has been left behind. I encourage children who are feeling separation anxiety to “look after” the ladybug for me. Usually we are enjoying a quiet circle time when the bell is rung and the child’s eyes light up when she realizes that mommy or daddy is waiting outside.įor other children, I have a small stuffed ladybug – it is just the right size for small hands. We put it outside the classroom and their parent is instructed to ring it when they arrive just before pick up time. Sometimes a few tears are shed but a skillful teacher will quickly have the child happily engaged in an activity.įor some children, I offer my small brass bell. Almost without exception, my experience has been that when mommies and daddies show confidence in their child’s ability to cope and when they don’t hesitate, the child manages fine. Their eyes well up and they send a clear message that they will be heartbroken if left. Since that time, I have taught many classes for preschool-age children and have dealt with many youngsters who don’t want mommies and daddies to leave. He grabbed my arm, he wanted reassurance and most of all, he wanted me to stay nearby. He had met the teachers and knew the playground BUT, when it came time to stay by himself, he was devastated. He had been to his older brother’s classroom countless times.

Leak Classic picture book published by Child & Family Pressĭespite the fact that my youngest son was very familiar with the preschool that he would be attending, separation was a major problem for him. The Kissing Hand written by Audrey Penn, illustrated by Ruth E.

Author of the kissing hand