AIBU to be petrified of my DD starting School?

[Tatteredlace]

She starts reception in a matter of days and I am having panic attacks at the thought.

We live in a relatively rural area and so the children get picked up and taken to school via minibus (I dont drive). I am terrified of her going on the bus alone and the whole school thing gives me palpitations with bullying, more children and less teachers... just everything.

I have mental health issues and I know I am blowing it all out of proportion, but I cant cope

It's a part of growing up. Yes it's daunting for parents, but she will be fine. YANBU to feel the way you do OP, but don't let her know how scared you are, it will make it harder for her to go.

Do you have a partner? Is he/she able to support you?

It's far more likely that she'll relish the independence, love her new friends and have a wonderful teacher to guide her through the next years of her life.

You've no need to be terrified of the bus journey. Plenty of children did it before her, and she won't be the last.

Easy said than done, but try to be happy for your daughter. You don't want your anxiety to rub off on her.

Is there an escort on the bus as well as the driver?. If so they wil look after your dd. Older children are often remarkably tolerant and caring about small new children too so she will probably be mothered to bits *by them.

• and fed sweets and crisps.....

I used to be a school bus kid, happy times for me, chance to have a catch up with other children who were in different classes.

What exactly is it about her starting school that is worrying you so much?
List it down, then come up with statagies for each thing that will help you cope

I dont think there is an escort on the bus, the teacher has said the other children tend to mother them so I am hoping its an adventure for her.

She doesn't know how I am feeling about it. She is super excited and cant wait to start and meet new friends.

I cant pinpoint my exact concerns, I just have so much anxiety about the whole situation

YANBU for being anxious OP, it's a big step - your little one is growing up and taking her first steps in her own world and its daunting and scary. Unfortunately it's part of life. Just remember she'll be surrounded by other kids who will look after her, and you'll be there when she gets back.

It's great she's so excited - it's a whole new adventure for her.