Helping a child with separation anxiety settle back into school

[Glitterballofdreams]

My child is really struggling to settle back into school. They had a tough time settling into nursery, and reception class. So it’s no surprise.
Any tips for helping them feel more confident and settled? It’s separation anxiety which is the issue.
Any advice is greatly appreciated!

My DD has struggled every year going back to school in September. Nursery up to yr 2 she had to literally be dragged in by her teacher each day for a good couple of weeks. She’s just started yr 6 and still cried at the school gate the first day back.

a few things I used to do to try & bring her comfort while we were apart…

I sprayed my perfume on her cardigan sleeve for her to sniff at school.
I wrote little notes and put in her pocket/packed lunch so she’d feel connected during the day,
we made each other bracelets that we’d both wear.
positive affirmations each morning.

I’m unsure if any of these actually helped or it was just time that got her through.

I know it’s awful, your child will be ok, some are just more sensitive than others. Look after yourself.

Following for ideas, my DS struggled last year, I ended up sending him to breakfast club, he went in fine then but it seems like a waste when it’s not needed… but better than upset at the school gates