"Don't Leave Me!" Expert Tips for Dealing with Separation Anxiety

Reader Tips for Dealing with Separation Anxiety

My daughter, Tyrah, was really freaked out by kindergarten, so one night just the two of us went out to dinner and we talked about the things that scare us. She was much calmer after she learned that her mother isn't so tough either. -- Trina J. Reichert; Horicon, Wisconsin

The teachers at my son Asher's preschool encourage the kids to "push" Mommy and Daddy out the door at drop-off time. Saying goodbye becomes a fun game to Asher -- and it gives him a real sense of control. -- Corrie G.; Los Angeles, California

I took time to prepare myself for the first day -- it's an emotional milestone for parents too. I talked to all my mom friends about their experience and asked for advice. I knew I needed to be calm so my kids would be too. -Allison S. S.; Chevy Chase, Maryland

Originally published in the September 2008 issue of Parents magazine.