What would you do?

[happymum24]

DD started preschool in September. She’s 3.5 and seemed to take to it really well. But since half term she’s been more and more reluctant to go. Then she was ill and since then it’s been really rocky. Staff say she’s really needy for adult attention but most of the time she’s happy enough-though not as bubbly and cheerful as she was at the start. It’s now escalated to her crying every day about going-even through the holidays. We’ve tried talking about it, then keeping it light and taking her mind off it but she’s genuinely anxious about it a lot of the time.

not sure what to do? Plough on in January and hope things improve or look to moving her for a fresh start?

Hoping someone reads!!!

What’s she like at home? I think if there’s a disconnect between how she is at home and preschool I’d be proving more with preschool about what’s going on there and what’s triggering her needing adult attention - eg is there a particular person there who’s scaring her?

Probing!

I think it depends on your DD & her comprehension level tbh.

would she understand if you gave her these options

DD you have to go to Nursery before Big School. Would you like to try a different one ir keep going to this one?

OR

DD we can take a few weeks off from Nursery, but in April (or whatever, when I say) you have to go to Nursery for a term before starting school

now, obviously she won't understand some of that, but will get the main message. (At some point in the future you will have to do this)

but preferring to stay home with you isn't unusual and she's now realised nursery is optional if you're not well or say you're not & if you cry/get upset.

I wouldn't make her go until the spring term,but I'd work on making her as independent as possible re toileting, socks/shoes/coat/Wellington boots, changing for PE, holding a pencil properly, recognising her name (in all forms) sitting quietly listening to a story etc.

She’s very happy and bubbly at home.
i think she’s got separation anxiety though