Bye-Bye Tips For Parents

I managed to borrow Bye-Bye Time (Toddler Tools Series) by Elizabeth Verdick from Woodlands Regional Library. I found the tips pretty easy and practical so I shall try them on Sophie since she is starting to exhibit strong separation anxiety.

Bye-Bye Tips For Parents

1. Stay positive
- casual and upbeat
- smile

2. Leave extra time for goodbyes
- no rush or frantic exit
- sneak out to avoid a scene.

3. Prep your child
- talk about spending the day away from you and home (at childcare centre)
- speak warmly of the caregiver (at childcare centre) there

4. Be ready for tears

5. Keep the goodbye in a firm and matter-of-fact way
- milestone for your child to learn handling separations

6. Create a ritual that instill confidence
- Bear hugs and Funny Fish kisses
- Pinocchio’s Nose Rubs and Forehead Touch
- Big Wave Bye-Bye or High Five or Special Handshake
- Say “See you later, alligator!” and get your child to say in response, “After a while, crocodile!” or say “Toodle-oo, kangaroo!”

7. Teach calming skills
- take deep breaths in and out
- find a quiet spot
- use a comfort object
- “goodbyes” are not forever, “hellos” are even sweeter after you have been apart

8. Leave a reminder
- offer family photo, a special memento or a kiss on the palm to hold tight and save

9. Keep the lines of communication open between parents and caregivers (at childcare centre)
- make known your style of handling separations with your child
- work together with the caregiver to check on how your child is coping

10. Sweeten the "hellos" with lots of praises and encouragements