How to Deal with a Clingy Grade Schooler

Dealing with separation anxiety in a child can be frustrating, especially when the child reaches school-age and is old enough to understand that he is an independent, separate person. With a little understanding and hard work, you can overcome this problem. Follow the tips below to cope with a clingy grade-schooler.

Instructions

1. Discuss the problem with the child's teacher. Teachers are educated in this matter, and usually well-prepared for dealing with these problems. Explain your concerns and work together to find a proper solution.

2. Read books together dealing with issues of going to school alone and being separated for awhile. Children will enjoy the stories and relate to the characters. Some good ones are "The Berenstein Bears Go To School," "Bea and Mr. Jones" and "Arthur's Teacher Trouble."

3. State firmly when the child will be picked up or reunited with the parent. Don't be vague by making statements like "soon" or "after a while." School-aged children are old enough to understand the concept of time, even if they can't tell time yet.

4. Be honest about leaving. Don't sneak out when the child is not looking or lie about not leaving. This will only add to the child's feeling of insecurity.

5. Find out if there is more behind the child's anxiety. Often children will try to avoid school if there is a problem with a bully, teacher, friends fighting or schoolwork that the child doesn't understand. Find out the root of the problem to more accurately fix the problem.

6. Reduce stress in the home life. If children are worried about a parent, they may not want to leave that parent's side. If there are family issues that are going on at home, such as divorce, the child may feel very insecure.

7. Consult a school's therapist or psychologist if the problem persists. There might be some serious issues that need to be dealt with if nothing seems to help, and professionals are trained to recognize these issues.