SEPARATION

Reorient your clinging child toward the classroom, but don't push her away

GOOD BYES

• When you say goodbye, leave.
• Don't ask permission ("I'm leaving now, OK?")
• Don't negotiate.
• So, be sure it's the right time to go.
• Check with the teacher

AFTER SCHOOL TALK

• Don't ask your child general questions
• Be specific and express your interest
• by making a statement or asking questions:
• "I noticed a red painting in the easel"
• "Did you ride a bike today?"

Look around the classroom to keep the home/school conversation current. What you notice will take on importance for your child.

LISTEN

• Listen to complains and worries with respect
• But tell your child that the teacher is the one
• who knows how to help with school issues
• Assure him or her that you will also help to
• tell the teacher what is the matter

RELAX

• Children have different reactions to new situations
• Regardless of how they are behaving,
• Your message to them (both stated and unstated)
• should be that school is where they belong
• And it's a place you trust.

Dr. Jean Mandelbaum

for
The Parents League of New York

parentsleague.org
@PLPrograms

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