How long should I expect seperation anxiety to last for 6yr old at new school?

[Dee]

My daughter started a new school this year for 1st grade. From everything I've seen, she has a wonderful teacher and it seems to be a caring school. She has made a few new friends and is happy when I pick her up. When I as how her day went, she says it was fun and tells me about what she did. However, when I take her to her class, she clings to me and cries that she does not want me to leave. I then take her to her teacher who gives her a big hug and holds her hand while I leave. It has been two weeks already and I'm wondering what the average time frame is for this kind of seperation problem. I would also like any ideas you may have for helping her overcome this behavior. Thank you in advance for your help.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Dee,

There really is no average duration for the sort of response your daughter is displaying. She sounds like she's adapting well to the class, and this is the most important thing. You are handling it fine by insisting that she go to school, and by bringing her right to the teacher, who also sounds like she's responding just right. So, you seem to be handling this well. Keep up what you're doing, and respond to the whole situation in a casual way. That is, don't make much of her sadness at the separation, and also don't make much of her success in adapting. Just let it continue to play out; it will be fine.

[CGTMHI]

We think what you're doing in this forum is tremendous and we just wanted to say thank you!!!

No where else on the Internet is there a place like this!!!

Thank you from two parents who have been helped more than words can say!!

Bob & Sally

[Philip1815]

Ditto!!!!!!

[Dee Newman]

Thank you for your quick response and we will continue doing what we're doing. Your site really is wonderful!

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Thank you. We appreciate the feedback and it's gratifying to know the Forum is helpful.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Thanks. We're pleased you're using the Forum.

[Daniella]

My son is doing the same thing.  He has a tough time leaving me and my husband.  If I want to go out I have to sneak out so he does not have to say goodbye.  He is finishing his third week of school - all day kindergarten.  He cries and clings to me every morning.  Parents are not allowed to escort the kids to the classroom - only teachers or aides.  Well my son knows all the teachers, aids and principal.  They are very kind and patient.  They take his had and stroll with him.  They tell me that by the time he gets to the classroom door that he isn't even crying.  His teacher says he is good and participates.  He made new friends and plays with some that he made in preschool.  When he lines up to be dismissed if he does not see me he starts to fill with tears. I too am upset that he cries but I believe that he is just a very sensitive child and he will out grow this.

[2b1g]

A related discussion, fear in 6 year old boy of me forgetting him at school was started.