None of us want to see our kids in pain, so helping your child escape the things they're afraid of can be tempting. That will only reinforce the anxiety of your child in the long term, however. Rather than seeking to prevent separation wherever possible, by taking action to make them feel safer, you can better help your child battle separation anxiety disorder. It will help your child feel more relaxed by having a sympathetic atmosphere at home. Even if the problem is not entirely solved by your efforts, your empathy will only make it easier.
Educate yourself about the anxiety condition of separation.
You will more readily sympathize with their problems if you hear about how your child is experiencing this condition.
Listen to your child's thoughts and value them.
The sense of being listened to can have a powerful calming effect for a child who may still feel alienated by their condition.
Speak about a problem.
Talking about their emotions is better for kids, they don't profit from "not thinking about it." Be empathetic, but still remind your child that they endured the last split, gently.
Anticipate trouble with separation.
Be prepared for transition points, such as going to school or meeting with friends to play, which can cause anxiety for your child. If your child splits more quickly from one parent than the other, have the drop off handled by that parent.
Keep calm during separation.
They are more likely to be calm, too, if your child sees that you can keep cool.
Enable the engagement of the child in sports.
Encourage your child to take part in social and physical activities that are healthy. They're great ways to relieve anxiety and help build friendships with your kids.
Praise the efforts of your kids.
Use the smallest of successes, a successful school report, going to bed without a fuss, as a justification to give your child positive reinforcement.