Does your child cry at school? These suggestions that make the difference

Cry, a normal reaction

When a child cries when he enters school, he doesn’t go on a whim. This behavior reflects a difficulty in separating from the figure of attachment, often the mother or father. Entry to kindergarten is the discovery of a new universe: an unknown place, adults who still does not know, a different routine. Tears are therefore a healthy reaction to this sudden pause. Most children are quickly attenuated once their parents have gone.

The essential role of the separation ritual

Sets a simple and stable ritual helps the child to better anticipate the separation. This can be a repeated phrase every morning, a hug or a small symbolic gesture, such as “I kiss you and come back tonight”. This ritual must remain short: external or return to its steps only strengthens anxiety.

Trust between parents and teachers

The child perceives the emotions of his parents. An adult who doubts or who feel guilty unwittingly transmits this concern. On the contrary, show confidence in the teacher and in the school protects the child. Speaking positively about his next day, improving the activities he will discover, they are all small phrases that help him project.

Suggestions to facilitate the transition

Some transition objects play a key role: a quilt, a small family photo or a handkerchief perfumed with the scent of the parent. They reassure the child during the day. It is also advisable to gradually get the child to separation: a few hours with a loved one, one morning in the background or days of adaptation offered by the school allow the preparation of the land.

When tears persist

In some children, separation anxiety lasts several weeks. In these cases, you must know how to remain consistent and not give in to the temptation to extend the presence of parents in the classroom. If tears persist over a month and are accompanied by physical symptoms (stomach pains, refusal to sleep, repeated nightmares), it may be useful to consult a pediatrician or a psychologist for children.

Accompany without dramatizing

The role of parents is not to suppress sadness but to accompany their child into this emotion. Saying “I understand that you are sad” rather than “crying”, he tells him that his emotions are listened to. The morning separation therefore becomes a normal phase of school life and not an insurmountable test.

In short, tears at school are a sign of ongoing learning: that of growing without the constant presence of the parent. With a reassuring ritual, a safe attitude and good communication with the teacher, this step turns into an opportunity to develop the child’s autonomy and emotional security.