Helping Your Child Separate Confidently at School

A Positive Start to the Day

Starting the school day can sometimes be emotional for young children. Separation anxiety is very common and a normal part of development. At our school, we use School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

By working together, families and staff can support children to develop confidence and independence.

Our School Values

We encourage all students to demonstrate:

• Positivity – approaching the day with optimism and confidence
• Respect – caring for themselves, others and the school environment
• Integrity – being honest, trusting adults and doing the right thing
• Determination – showing persistence, even when things feel tricky
• Excellence – always trying their best

These values guide how we support children during morning drop-off.

Before School

You can help by:

• Establishing a calm, predictable morning routineConsistency helps children feel secure and confident.
• Speaking positively about schoolHighlight enjoyable activities, friendships and learning.
• Encouraging independenceAllow your child to carry their own bag and follow simple routines.
• Providing a comfort connection if neededA small photo or special item in their bag can support emotional regulation.

At Drop-Off Time

To support a smooth transition:

• Keep goodbyes short, calm and positiveThis supports Positivity and Determination.
• Be confident and reassuringChildren take emotional cues from adults.
• Use the same goodbye routine each dayPredictability builds trust and Integrity.
• Say goodbye once and leaveReturning can increase anxiety and make separation more difficult.

If Your Child Becomes Upset

• Tears at drop-off are common and usually short-lived.
• Staff will support your child using calm reassurance, empathy and redirection.
• Children are encouraged to express feelings in respectful and safe ways.
• Most children settle quickly once engaged in classroom routines and learning.

Building Confidence Over Time

• Praise your child for showing Determination and Respect.
• Acknowledge effort and bravery, even in small steps.
• Celebrate successes as children work towards Excellence in managing routines independently.

Working Together

If your child is finding separation particularly challenging, please speak with your child’s teacher. Working together ensures consistent support and helps every child experience a positive, successful start to their school day.

Georgia Despotellis and Labreni Pappas