For some children, the excitement of starting or going back to school turns to fear at the bus stop or classroom door. Separation anxiety is a real condition for many children and their parents on the first day of school, says Samuel T. Gladding, professor of counseling at Wake Forest University and author of the book “Family Therapy.” Not being well-prepared for the separation makes anxiety worse, Gladding says. He offers parents tips for how to avoid emotional scenes with children clinging tearfully to them when it is time to say goodbye. Role play with your child on leaving and...
