Separation Issues

[RF536]

My soon to be 4 DS has started within the past few weeks having hard time separating from us. He goes to preshool 3 days a week for 4 hours a day. About 3 weeks ago he started getting upset when we left but was fine as soon as we were out of sight. It has progressively gotten worse to the point were the past 2 times he cried the whole time. He has repeatedly mentioned that he doen't like to go outside, but won't tell us why. We have spoken with teachers and they are going to keep and extra close eye on him when he is outside to make sure no one is picking on him. The separation issues are beginning to carry over into the rest of his life. The past weekend we attended a show for small kids where the little ones were encouraged to sit down front on the floor. After 2 minutes he was in tears and came back to us saying he missed us.

A little more background. This is a daycare/preschool center with about 15 kids in DS class. My older son began attending last fall 3 days/week and loved it. Both boys attended over the summer in Fridays for 5hrs/day, and looked forward to going every week. When school began again older DS began K and DS3 began attending the preschool for 3 days a week. At first he loved it, and was happy to go. Then about 3 weeks ago things began to change.

Any suggestions on how to help??

 

[mickeyboat]

I am not going to be much help. But I can sympathize. Emily has trouble, too, but I think it is more with transition, and not so much with separation, if that makes any sense. She is 6 now, and I still see it. She does much better when she knows what to expect all the time, and if her schedule is consistent. I think some of our trouble with her on the weekends (which isn't bad) is because she is out of her usual school routine.

I sure hope things get better for your son.

Denae

 

[Cindy's Mom]

I am not going to be much help. But I can sympathize. Emily has trouble, too, but I think it is more with transition, and not so much with separation, if that makes any sense. She is 6 now, and I still see it. She does much better when she knows what to expect all the time, and if her schedule is consistent. I think some of our trouble with her on the weekends (which isn't bad) is because she is out of her usual school routine.

I sure hope things get better for your son.

Denae

well said Denae - OP, I suggest maybe a calendar just for DS, so she know where she will be the next day. Kids are visual, at least my kids are, and if they "see" something, its helps them to understand. Kids need to be on a schedule - they thrive for routine perhaps your daughter just hasn't picked up the "routine" that every other day is school. Just a thought, in the meantime to you.

 

[RF536]

Just bumping, I need any and all suggestions.