recent change in our daughter's behaivor

Our 6 1/2 yr. daughter recently had a bout with a stomach virus that caused vomitting and has now made her afraid that these symptoms will repeat themselves again in school or in social settings.  As a result, she dislikes school.  These fears have migrated to feelings of being unable to swallow as well as to breath.  We consulted her Pediatician who reassured her that she is fine and informed us that this residual effect of a sickness is common.  We also suspect that her some of her class mates in her highly academically competitive 1st grade class (we were informed that she was purposely selected for this class)may not include her in routine situations such as mat time, playground time etc.  In kindergarten, she was very able to deal with dyas like that, now she seems to struggle.

Any advice?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Yes, my inclination is to adhere to the guidance offered by your daughter's pediatrician. Such a post-illness reaction, fearing that the symptoms will repeat themselves in a setting where they would pose problems, is not unusual. Generally the reaction wanes over a period of days as the child continues to prosper. Be sure not to let the symptom (i.e., your daughter's reticence about school) dicatate what occurs. Carry on as usual, with the same daily schedule. To do otherwise is to reinforce the reticence and unwittingly to support the notion that there is a realistic concern. Tell your daughter that you understand her worry, that it happens sometimes after a person has been sick, and that you're comfortable she'll be OK. The strategy is one of patient, understanding adherence to daily routine.