Tell me it gets better: crying on school drop offs

[BananaHammock23]

First week of reception has been a total shit show. DS is absolutely hysterical at drop offs, being led off in tears by the TA everyday. They say he settles quickly but cries when his concentration breaks and he realises where he is and asks when we’re coming to get him constantly.

he was only 4 at the end of July, I feel horrendous. So much guilt and sadness.

anyone got any experience of this? Tell me it gets better 😭

Mine was like this most of the way through primary! However she was diagnosed with ASD in late primary.

I didn't experience this with my own child but I have worked as a TA in many reception classes and it is very common. Even children that go in fine in the morning often have wobbly moments later in the day and ask if it's nearly time for 'mummy' to come. I'm sure it will get better soon.

Can I introduce you to the imaginary love cape. Sounds bonkers but worked pretty well for us as a distraction going into school. I asked various questions like what colour should be, whether it should have fur round the collar, what are the buttons like. Last thing was to put up the imaginary hood as she went into school and say that she was ready.

Mine does too! It breaks my heart

Did it happen at nursery or preschool?

It can last a long time. I have a y2 child who is still often distraught at the gate. Was very happy at nursery. She’s generally fine once she’s in but is not good at heading in. My other child skipped in happily so that has been a culture shock.

My DD was like that. It wasn't she didn't like school... she just wanted me there so she could show me all the fun things!
Unfortunately, what sorted it was her needing to get the school bus every day, so I never went near the school. Which is not an option for most people!

I think the drop off can be a very overwhelming situation... children, parents, siblings, staff, then the older children as well. I think its just time really, and knowing you will always be there in the evening

My youngest cried every morning through the whole of his reception year. When he was starting in year one he started crying on the first day. I said try not to cry in front of all the little ones starting school today and after that he was fine

I worked in a school. Usually for first few days are quiet then by the end of week one the kids are getting tired, bored of the routine, miss their old friends, classes, trips to the shops with mum and the screaming begins. Doesn’t last (for the vast majority) for very long. It is very very normal (and some do copy their friends).

Mine can still be like this at the start of year 3... Sorry! She does actually like school, most of the time.

Oh my goodness, this is so good! I am going to get myself one!