Smile and greet each child -and parent- by name.
If the kiddo is new, introduce yourself to the parent/caregiver and child. Project a sense of calm. As my husband says, “Calm is contagious.” Engage the little by introducing them to another child or a toy. Reassure the parent that you’ve got this.
Keep it short and sweet.
Keep drop off short. Suggest a quick and specific goodbye. “Okay Susie, let’s give mom one more hug and then we’re going to go play. Mom will come back right after church. Bye, mom.” This cues both mom and Susie. Discourage prolonged drop offs or peeking in later.
Validate feeling, then redirect.
“I know you’re sad and miss your dad. He’ll be back soon. Would you like to play with blocks while you wait?” “I see that you’re angry that mom left. I understand. Sometimes I get angry too. Let’s take a deep breath. It looks like Joey got out some cars, should we go play with him?”
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