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Waving to the School Bus
Helping Your Toddler Adjust When Older Siblings Go off to School
By Keath Castelloe Low
"Vigorous play is a good way to work off nervous energy, so be sure your toddler gets plenty of exercise," Sonna says. "Little ones also get crankier when they are hungry, so provide timely, nutritious meals and snacks. Don't offer sugary and fatty snacks to comfort your tyke. Instead, try hugs." Your toddler may even need an extra naptime as he adjusts to the new routine.
Have your child help with household chores. Invite him to help you wash the dishes, take out small bags of trash, remove the laundry from the dryer, water the plants, dust. "Most toddlers enjoy doing what their parents do, although they don't stay on task for long," Sonna says.
When your child gets bored of helping you with the chores, help him transition into quiet play time. Sonna lists some suggestions: blocks, puzzles, art projects or simply putting on a pair of socks. Play patty cake, sing nursery rhymes or read a book together. While it is always important for you to be there to supervise and keep your toddler safe, allow him some time for solo play to explore, learn and play on his own.
Play dates are a great way for your toddler to spend time with companions. Organize a date at a friend's house or meet at the local park. Have a picnic together. Play in the sprinkler. Blow bubbles outside. Take a trip to the library for story time.
"The bond among siblings is absolutely unique," Samalin says. "No other relationship involves the same intensity of closeness ... both for better and for worse."
If you sense that your toddler is still experiencing feelings of worry and loneliness related to the separation, consider accompanying the sibling to school, taking a peek into the classroom or eating lunch together at school. Sonna explains that these activities can help reassure your toddler that his sibling is OK.
Above all, remember to be sensitive and in tune to your toddler's feelings. And as Hardin reminds us, the best solution for her daughter was "lots of TLC."
