REMIND YOURSELF OF THIS

Even though it is tough dropping your little one off at first, what they learn at play school is vital for their independence and development.

You are bound to get a reaction from a toddler starting school for the first time, and there’ll definitely be some sort of emotional display that will manifest itself behaviourally, for instance crying, disengaging or acting tough.

You might also have to deal with screaming matches. Check yourself: does the anxiety about school stem from you? Try your utmost to control your own anxiety and adjust your behaviour accordingly, so you can help your child to settle in and feel less anxious too. Children pick up on their parents’ emotions without them even realising it.

Ask any teacher – mostly, once the doors close, the tears stop. ●