Replies to 'School Issues'

I too was a stay at home mom.  The separation anxiety started for us when my son started preschool.  In his case, a little bus came to pick him up since he had developmental delays and had to go to a special school.  Every day when the bus came, the tears would start.  On one hand, I felt terrible knowing that I was sending my son out into the world without me.  On the other hand, it felt good to know that he wanted to be with me.  Also, I knew that I was doing the right thing by sending him, so that helped me deal with the guilt. 

I soon learned that the shorter and sweeter our good-byes were, the quicker he was able to adjust.  Because he had the bus ride, he was always calm by the time he got to school.  As a matter of fact, the bus driver used to say that as soon as the bus turned the corner and our house was out of sight, he calmed down.   

My advice is to talk about all of the fun, positive things about school as you're getting ready; remind her that you'll be there for her when school is over.  When you say good-bye, make it short and sweet.  Don't get sucked in by the tears to linger and offer her comfort.  Once you've said good-bye, it's somebody else's job to comfort her and distract her.  It's hard, I know, but it will get easier.  

By the way, after you've left her, go get yourself a latte or something.  Or do some deep-breathing exercises.  (Whatever you do to manage stress.)  Saying good-bye is stressful for you too.