Preparing for Preschool: Separation Anxiety and Choosing the Right Preschool

Dealing with Separation Anxiety

If your child doesn’t feel like going to school, Dr. Joselyn Eusebio, developmental pediatrician at St. Luke’s Medical Center, Quezon City, lists several reasons “including separation anxiety, fears, excessive worries, personal temperament such as being shy or sensitive, and even chronic illnesses.” Most of these can be addressed but first, you have to know the root of the problem.

 

Stay to Reassure but Don’t Linger

Separation anxiety is “developmentally appropriate” for kids 7 months to 6 years, says Dr. Eusebio. Talk to your child; assure him that his teacher will be there to assist him in any way, and that you will pick him up after class. “I allow the parent to stay inside the classroom until the child is settled,” says Rachel Ricafrente-Abella, preschool teacher at Rafoux Playschool in Pasig City. But if a parent lingers in school, the child will hold on to their parent longer, she explains. You and your child’s teacher should be on the same page as how best to overcome this problem.

Parents need not force a child to go to school; just be patient and consistent. Remember that having fun is essential to learning. And before you know it, your child will wake you up and beg for you to bring him to class.  

 

Click here to read 6 tips on how to choose the right preschool.

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How to Choose the Right Preschool

Below are some factors to help you decide which preschool is best for your child.

1. LEARNING APPROACH. Do you want your child to grow up in a traditional, progressive, or Montessori school? Your choice should suit your child, and reflect your own ideals.

2. COMFORT.  Are you and your child comfortable with the teachers handling the classes? Are they available for one-on-one consultations?

3. EXPERTISE. Are the teachers competent? Do the authorities recognize the school?

4. FACILITIES. Are the facilities okay? Is the place neat and orderly? Is safety a priority?

5. PROXIMITY. How far is the drive to school? Do you have school bus or carpool options?

6. BUDGET. There is no price too high for quality education so be sure you weigh your options. 

 

Want to read more on choosing the right preschool? Check out The Five Ps of Choosing the Right Preschool

 

Sources:

• Joselyn Eusebio, M.D., developmental pediatrician, St. Luke’s Medical Center, Quezon City
• Rachel Ricafrente-Abella, M.A., Family Life and Child Development, University of the Philippines, Quezon City; preschool teacher, Rafoux Playschool, Pasig City

 

Photo from sxc.hu