Helping children face the fear of nightmares with love and understanding
Separation anxiety is a natural stage in the development of young children. Usually, this stage ends around two years old when children begin to understand that although their parents may leave, they will return. However, due to the impact of the pandemic, many children have spent more time at home with their parents, increasing the occurrence of separation anxiety. Here are tips and strategies to manage this situation effectively and lovingly.
One of the most effective methods is using gradual approximations. When it comes time to return to work, you can start making small outings, demonstrating to your child that whenever you leave, you come back. This practice can help the child gradually get used to goodbyes, reducing separation anxiety.
Creating a goodbye ritual can be very helpful. Stay calm and be consistent, say goodbye in a loving but firm manner. A brief and simple farewell can prevent the child from becoming too distressed. Assure them that you will return, and to make this promise more concrete, you can say something like "I'll be back before bath time." Fulfilling these promises is crucial for the child to build a trustful relationship with you.
It is essential to validate the child's emotions. Acknowledge and understand how they feel, but also convey that you trust their abilities to overcome this moment. Let them know they will be in good hands while you're away, and motivate them by saying that when you reunite, you'll have many things to talk about.
Remember that this phase is temporary. It's most likely that by the time you've walked a block away, your child will already be calmly playing or engrossed in an activity they enjoy. However, if the separation anxiety persists and is accompanied by physical symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or difficulty sleeping, it is advisable to consult a mental health professional.
At Cuentología, we specifically address separation anxiety with our audio story "Uy, Uy, Uy. Se Perdió Un Cuy." This expert-endorsed story helps children understand that although mommy or daddy may leave, they always return. Additionally, we offer activities that reinforce this idea, such as choosing a special photo and making a drawing for the parents to take with them. Our audio stories are designed to be a powerful tool that fosters children's imagination and socio-emotional development, helping parents and children face these moments together without screens.
