Is this separation anxiety?

[JKB1]

I recently returned from a 4 day work related trip, two dds were looked after by DH while I was away. Now my older DD (6 year old) is extremely anxious whenever she has to leave me, eg. tears when I leave her at school (which she likes), coming back downstairs crying, 30mins after being settled for the night, followed my 30 mins of tears before being re-settled. She's reluctant to go to clubs she enjoys, and just wants to stay at home with Mummy. It's been going on for only a week, but this is really out of character. I would really appreciate any advice. I'm being patient and reassuring and not cross with her. She's also been saying she feels sick, but I think its anxiousness. What to do to help her? I have only been away once before a few months ago and all was fine that time.

Sounds like it :( Poor little thing, and poor you! It can be very frustrating when a child suddenly becomes very clingy!

Even if it's not that, the answer to such situations is usually, IME, to go with it. Hold her close, let her have a few weeks of her groups and clubs - call the leaders and explain why. Let her fall asleep in your arms for a while.

Don't worry too much, but just give her what she's telling you fairly clearly that she needs - you, and lots of you :)

It won't last forever, and will last for far less long if you embrace it rather than resist it.