The following article was written by Kirsten Smith, a Youth Services Associate at the Manitowoc Public Library.
Starting kindergarten is a significant milestone for young children. It is a time of excitement, curiosity, and anxiety. Separation from primary caregivers during the school day varies—some kids eagerly wave goodbye, while others cling tightly to their grown-up’s leg. As parents and educators, we aim to ensure that this transition is as smooth as possible. Having a plan in place for gradual acclimation and strategies for self-regulation can help children learn to be more independent.
Big Emotions for Little People: Starting Kindergarten
Children entering 4- and 5-year-old kindergarten are invited to Manitowoc Public Library for the next installment of our Big Emotions for Little People series. The program begins at 10:30 AM on Friday, August 16, in the Balkansky Community Room. Featuring media from PBS’ Daniel Tiger, this program will introduce children to the concept of kindergarten, address the separation they will experience from primary caregivers, reassure them that reunions will happen, and provide tools for emotional self-regulation.
Overcoming Separation Anxiety through Books
Separation anxiety is common in young children. While it is developmentally normal for children under three, older kids may still worry about being apart from caregivers. Books can help children process these transitions, preparing them for new situations and reassuring them that their thoughts and feelings are shared among peers. Consider checking out the following books to help your child grow more independent:
- The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn
First published in 1993, this heartwarming book is a children’s classic. It has helped millions of children adjust to daycare, kindergarten, and summer camp. It tells the tale of Chester Raccoon, who is just beginning school and does not want to go. To ease his fears, Mrs. Raccoon reminds him of her love as she shares a family secret.
- Bye Bye Time, by Elizabeth Verdick
This book reassures children that “Goodbye” is temporary and offers some simple rituals to make the transition less upsetting. It follows a little girl as she is dropped-off with a caregiver and engages some basic tools to say goodbye to her parents.
- Owl Babies, by Martin Waddell
Three owlets wake up one night to find their mother gone. The trio worries in her absence: What is she doing? When will she be back? What scary things move in the dark? By the end of the book, the family is happily reunited and the owlets learn that their mother always comes back.
- The Invisible String, by Patrice Karst
What can’t you see with your eyes, but can feel in your heart? An invisible string that always connects us to those we love. This book will inspire deep conversations about love as the reader explores questions about the intangible and unbreakable connections between us.
- Llama Llama Misses Mama, by Anna Dewdney
Llama Llama is beginning preschool and Mama makes certain he is ready. They meet the teacher, see the other children, and look at the classroom. When it is time for Mama to leave, Llama Llama is not excited anymore and worries if Mama will come back.
Join Us at Manitowoc Public Library
To learn more about addressing separation anxiety in young children, please join us on Friday, August 16, at 10:30 AM for Big Emotions for Little People: Starting Kindergarten at Manitowoc Public Library. This program is geared toward children entering 4- and 5-year-old kindergarten and will be held in the Balkansky Community Room. Participants will receive an introduction to the concept of kindergarten, observe their favorite characters during drop-off time, and practice self-regulation strategies to use during these good-byes.
Discover more Manitowoc Public Library programs at https://www.manitowoclibrary.org/events/month/2024/08. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.