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I have this little girl in my kindergarten group that has separation anxiety pretty severe, we just can't keep her in the class if her mom or aunt isn't with her. At first we decided to take her and let her mom and aunt go, but as the days went on her anxiety got worst to such a stage where she had a panic attack. We knew she had it but didn't know it was that severe. So we finally decide to let her mom or aunt at least stay with her in the classroom.

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What is separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is classified as a disorder. It is a condition that occurs in children especially over the age of six years old. It is when a child becomes fearful and nervous when away from home or when they are separated from a loved one. The loved one can be a parent or another caregiver to whom the child is attached. Sometimes physical symptoms can also occur. This great fear of separation can cause an interference with the child's normal activities such as going to school or even playing with other children.

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Signs and Symptoms of separation anxiety

1. An unrealistic and lasting worry that something bad will happen to their loved, one (parent or caregiver), if the child leaves them.
2. The have an unrealistic worry that something bad will happen to them if their loved one/caregiver leaves them.
3. They refuse to go to school in order for them to stay with the caregiver.
4. They refuse to sleep without the caregiver nearby, they never sleep away from home.
5. They have a fear of being alone.
6. They have nightmares about being separated.
7. They are usually bed wetters.
8. They complain about physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches etc. especially on school days.
9. They have repeated temper tantrums or pleading their caregivers not to leave their side.
   
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What is the cause of Separation Anxiety disorder?

These are just a few possible causes for separation anxiety disorder. Please take note that not everyone has the same causes.

1. A traumatic event experienced by the child (stay in the hospital, death of a loved one/pet, change of environment etc.
2. Sometimes children with over-protective parents are prone to separation anxiety.

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What can be done to help your child with separation anxiety?

1. Try practicing separation through play or short stretches. The child must know that when his/her parent says they will come back they will hold their word.
2. Develop a goodbye ritual that you do everytime when you are reunited with your child.
3. NEVER SNEAK OUT!
4. Maintain familiarity for your child. Don't jump between babysitterts etc.
5. Stay calm and NEVER cry in front of your child.

A short video about separation anxiety.

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Sources

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