{"id":54639,"date":"2025-11-24T21:30:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T21:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/?p=54639"},"modified":"2025-11-24T02:25:36","modified_gmt":"2025-11-24T02:25:36","slug":"separation-anxiety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/cospedia\/separation-anxiety","title":{"rendered":"Supporting Students with Separation Anxiety"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"54639\" class=\"elementor elementor-54639\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4a59f48 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4a59f48\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2cff929 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2cff929\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The start of a new school year is an exciting time, but it can also bring challenges for young students who struggle with separation anxiety. Whether students are entering school for the first time or returning after long holiday breaks, the transition back into the classroom can trigger strong emotions. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Teachers and school staff play a vital role in helping students feel safe, supported and confident as they settle into their learning environment. Understanding what separation anxiety is, recognising the signs and knowing how to help students with separation anxiety can make a significant difference in their wellbeing.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f625903 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"f625903\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6b9c7e1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6b9c7e1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What is Separation Anxiety? <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4670ed2 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4670ed2\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1d4e03c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1d4e03c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Separation anxiety is a fear or distress that occurs when a child is away from a parent or primary caregiver. While some level of worry is a normal part of childhood development, separation anxiety becomes a concern when the distress is intense, persistent or disrupts a child\u2019s ability to participate in everyday activities like coming to school, engaging in class or forming friendships.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Australian data highlights how common this challenge is. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare notes that anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions in children, with around one in seven children aged between four and eleven experiencing a mental health issue in any given year. Among these, separation anxiety is one of the most frequently identified anxiety presentations in younger students.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Separation anxiety often appears during major transitions. The start of the school year, the move into a new classroom or even returning from school holidays can unsettle students who rely heavily on familiar routines and reassurance. For early learners in preschool or kindergarten, this may be their first experience being away from home for extended periods, making separation especially challenging.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9e996ac e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"9e996ac\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a537b3b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a537b3b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Recognising the Signs of Separation Anxiety <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5e2e934 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"5e2e934\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7ef662f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7ef662f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Teachers are often the first to notice signs of separation anxiety. These may include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Excessive crying or clinging at drop off<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Frequent complaints of stomach aches, headaches or feeling unwell\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Difficulty concentrating in class<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Withdrawal from peers or avoidance of activities<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Repeated requests to call home or check-in with caregivers<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"6\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Emotional outbursts when anticipating the end of the school day<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">These behaviours aren&#8217;t a matter of students being difficult, but rather expressions of fear, uncertainty and emotional overwhelm. Responding with patience, warmth and understanding sets the foundation for effective support.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-303cac9 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"303cac9\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-09816c7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"09816c7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Practical Steps to Help Students with Separation Anxiety <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-81f0281 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"81f0281\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-418d16d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"418d16d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Supporting students with separation anxiety requires a calm, predictable and compassionate approach. Teachers and school staff can take many practical steps to create a sense of safety and trust.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Establish predictable routines<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">An established and predictable routine can help anxious students feel grounded, such as beginning each day with familiar steps such as greeting students at the door, morning circle time or quiet settling in activities. When students know what to expect, they feel more in control.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">For new or young students, visual schedules can be especially helpful. Picture charts that show the sequence of the day allow children to follow along without relying solely on verbal instruction.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Create warm, reassuring transitions<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Drop off time is often the most stressful moment of the day for students experiencing separation anxiety. Supportive strategies include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Having a staff member ready to greet the student warmly<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Providing a quiet, calm activity the student can engage with right away<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Using gentle reassurance to help them settle<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Some children may benefit from a predictable goodbye routine, such as a special handshake or brief phrase. This structure can help them feel secure and connected. even as they separate from their caregiver.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Use connection as a tool<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Students experiencing separation anxiety often fear that being away from their caregiver means they are not safe. Teachers can counter this by forming strong, trusting relationships with students. Taking a few minutes at the start of the day to check in, share a conversation or engage in a comforting interaction can help students feel seen and supported.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">A buddy system can also prove an effective salve for separation anxiety. Pairing a child with a kind and confident peer gives them someone to rely on as they adjust to the classroom setting.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Offer small responsibilities<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Giving students small, meaningful classroom jobs can boost their confidence and shift their focus away from their worries. Tasks such as handing out pencils, watering plants or choosing a book for story time help students feel valued, capable and part of a group.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Communicate clearly with families<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0Open communication with caregivers is essential, as families can share information about what strategies work at home, and teachers can provide updates on how the child is coping at school.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">It can be helpful to encourage families to keep drop offs brief, consistent and calm. Lengthy goodbyes can intensify a child&#8217;s anxiety, while steady routines can build trust.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5b45a78 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"5b45a78\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0dae799 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"0dae799\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Emotional Support for Students with Separation Anxiety <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d63bc41 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"d63bc41\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8a9d5f5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8a9d5f5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">At its core, separation anxiety is an emotional challenge, so supporting students effectively requires acknowledging their feelings while gently encouraging independence.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Validate their emotions<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Let students know that it is okay to feel worried or sad when separating from someone they love. Validating their feelings shows respect for their experience and helps them feel understood.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Simple phrases such as, \u201cI can see you are feeling worried. You are safe here and I will help you,\u201d can be very reassuring.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Teach calming strategies<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Students can benefit from learning simple tools they can use to regulate their emotions. These might include:\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Deep breathing<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Counting slowly<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Using a calm corner in the classroom<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Drawing or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/cospedia\/mindfulness-in-the-classroom\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">journalling feelings<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Holding a comfort item<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"6\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/cospedia\/sensory-play-and-support\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sensory play<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, such as with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/search?productCodes=%20SAND0010%7C%20SAND0011%7C%20SAND0012%7C%20SAND0013%7C%20SAND0030%7C%20SAND0031%7C%20SAND0032%7C%20SAND0040%7C%20SAND0041%7C%20SAND0042\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">kinetic sand<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">These strategies can help empower students to manage their own anxiety gradually.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Celebrate progress<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Progress may be slow and may look different for each student but that shouldn&#8217;t stop you or them from celebrating small achievements such as settling more quickly, taking part in group tasks or showing confidence during the day. Positive reinforcement helps build resilience and helps students recognise their own growth.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f774ac7 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"f774ac7\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-542a408 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"542a408\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Supporting Students Through the School Year <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4f44133 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4f44133\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7a913b6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7a913b6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">As students adapt to the school routine, many will naturally become more comfortable, but separation anxiety can still resurface during disruptions such as public holidays, family changes or other sudden shifts in routine. Teachers and staff should continue to offer steady emotional support throughout the year.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mentalhealthcommission.gov.au\/sites\/default\/files\/2024-03\/national-report-2019---summary.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Monitoring mental health and suicide prevention reform National Report 2019<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> by the Australian Government National Mental Health Commission\u00a0shows that early intervention and supportive environments play a major role in reducing childhood anxiety, and schools are uniquely positioned to provide that support. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">When educators respond with empathy, structure and patience, students build coping skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class='watch-action'><div class='watch-position align-left'><div class='action-like'><a class='lbg-style3 like-54639 jlk' href='javascript:void(0)' data-task='like' data-post_id='54639' data-nonce='d1ffb92144' rel='nofollow'><img class='wti-pixel' src='https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-content\/plugins\/wti-like-post\/images\/pixel.gif' title='Did you find this useful?' \/><span class='lc-54639 lc'>0<\/span><\/a><\/div><div class='action-unlike'><a class='unlbg-style3 unlike-54639 jlk' href='javascript:void(0)' data-task='unlike' data-post_id='54639' data-nonce='d1ffb92144' rel='nofollow'><img class='wti-pixel' src='https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-content\/plugins\/wti-like-post\/images\/pixel.gif' title='' \/><span class='unlc-54639 unlc'>0<\/span><\/a><\/div> <\/div> <div class='status-54639 status align-left'><\/div><\/div><div class='wti-clear'><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Understanding separation anxiety, recognising the signs and knowing how to help students can make a significant difference in their wellbeing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":54640,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,2121],"tags":[3442,3441,395],"class_list":["post-54639","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cospedia","category-education","tag-emotional-support-for-students","tag-separation-anxiety","tag-student-wellbeing"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54639","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=54639"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54639\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54646,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54639\/revisions\/54646"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/54640"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=54639"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=54639"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cos.net.au\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=54639"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}