DS 2,11 - started getting v upset when dropping at nursery - help please.

[StokieDad]

Our DS 2,11 - normally a very happy little chap - has recently started getting very upset when DW or I (or both) drop him at nursery.

He's been going for a long time and is usually absolutely fine - occasionally just a little reticent about going in, but easily distracted and goes in ok.

Normally he goes in two days a week, but recently DW has been working more - so he's been going in an extra day here and there.

It's a very good nursery. There is one member of staff in particular that he's bonded with very well. When we go to collect him he often says that he wants to stay there - so he clearly does like it.

I find it hard to see him so upset when dropping him off - and I know DW does too.:(

Any advice? What are we doing wrong??

Nothing.

Just a phase, my DS2 (3.5) is very sensitive to change eg: Daddy was working from home a lot now he's out the house more in the office and he hated it, he would cry when DH left the house and ask 500 times if DH was picking him up from nursery. It soon passed once he felt settled in the newness of Daddy being out the house a lot more.

DS2 now tells me to stay outside when I drop him at pre-school!

Just keep the same routine with loads of reassurance, also I used to as DS2 what sweetie treat he would like when I picked him up, so he had something to look forward to, he once said a Kinder Egg and I nearly forgot, had to rush round to the shops with minutes to spare before pick up! The things you do!!

Thanks Caro.

That is reassuring... I think it probably is due to the change of routine, as you say.

can't wait for him to tell me to stay outside when dropping him off!

Will try the treat thing too!

Agree, nothing. Our DS2 is just 3 and is going through another separation anxiety phase. Quite normal and part of their ever changing awareness of the world around them and their own place in it.

Thanks Pheebe. Good to know this is all part of life's rich tapestry!

Fingers crossed for tomorrow morning .