Separation Tips

Before Separation

• Please Arrive to school on time (9:00am)
• Know, Trust, and Feel Comfortable with the school
• Be Familiar with the setting and routine
• Leave Ample Time to say goodbye
• Prepare Child in Advance by talking about school and what they can expect.
• Be Positive in your approach to separation
• Resist Temptation to bribe your child for controlling or hiding their distress

Saying Goodbye

• Always say goodbye
• Establish a goodbye routine
• Leave some transition time for your child to connect with the teacher
• Maintain a positive attitude
• Be Empathetic, but do not allow yourself to be manipulated
• Goodbyes need to be definite and firm
• Always tell your child that you will return
• Leave a transition article with your child (e.g. picture, telephone number, favorite stuffed animal, blanket, but please no pacifiers), if necessary

Communication with school

• Please feel free to call the school to see how your child is doing (781-245-4098)
• Communicate any special information concerning your child with his or her homeroom teacher
• Let the teacher know, in the child's presence, who will be picking up your child if it is someone other than the person bringing him or her to school

Saying Hello Again

• Greet your child upon arrival
• Acknowledge the emotional swings that accompany reunions
• Be aware and respectful of the schools "end of the day" routines ( i.e. make sure to let the teacher know you are taking your child)
• Be consistent with the school's pick up policies

Special Considerations

• Each child is an individual. Tailor these guidelines to your own situation.
• Separation is an ongoing process. Once an adjustment is made, many factors may precipitate a regression; such as a change in the family ( e.g. a new baby, a move, a divorce, a new developmental stage of the child , or a change in the parent's job status and schedule )