- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Harriet S. Worobey, M.A. Early Childhood Educator Director, the Nutritional Sciences Preschool | ||
 |
My son enjoyed preschool, but now does not want to go. Is this separation anxiety or could something have happened at school?
The most likely reason is separation anxiety. Most parents think that if their children separate from them easily during the first weeks of preschool or daycare, that they are home free. However, quite often children will start to protest later, once they realize that school is a permanent fixture. Sometimes we even find that children who have seemed perfectly well adjusted develop separation problems during the second semester. Most of the time this is a normal part of development. Sometimes it can be a reaction (delayed or otherwise) to something going on at home -- death of a pet, illness in the family, change in the parent's work schedule, etc.
However, I would never want to discount a parent's instinct. It is certainly possible that something upsetting has happened at the center. It may be a small matter that the teacher has overlooked, but that does NOT seem small to your child. I would not put words into your child's mouth but ask him how he feels during certain parts of the day. Some 3-year-olds are not very verbal yet, and then it is difficult to identify the problem. There may be another child who has hurt your child's feelings, unbeknownst to the staff. I would definitely discuss the problem with your child's teacher, get feedback and suggestions from him or her, find out how they are trying to solve the problem in the classroom, and finally see if you can observe in the classroom if the problem persists. As I said, the most likely reason is separation difficulty, but your job is the welfare of your child, so you must follow through with this problem. Hope these suggestions help!
Related Expert Q&A
- I sometimes feel guilty when I just let my children play and do not join in. Should I always participate in their playtime?
- Is TV really that bad for children? Should I really be concerned?
- My kids are couch potatoes. All they want to do is watch TV. What can I do?
- What should I do about my child's lisp?
- I have twins who need a little push in the self-confidence department. Any suggestions?
More Answers by this Expert
- We have two boys and are expecting another baby in April. What is the best way to share the news with them?
- What are some signs of stress to look for in a child's behavior when dealing with the death of a family, friend or relative?
- Is it OK for preschool-age children to drink high protein drinks for breakfast?
- I tried to interview a preschool teacher once, but she was too busy with the kids. Should I just forget interviewing her since she is obviously so focused on the kids?
- How do I ease separation anxiety in my child when I drop him off at preschool?