At Stepping Stone School, our expert team of professionals recognize and are sensitive to the anxieties parents and children often feel when separating from one another.

While separation anxiety is a natural experience for both children and parents, our expert teachers hold in high regard the critical role they play in guiding families through this difficult experience and providing peace of mind for both parent and child.

Stepping Stone School’s Executive Director, Rhonda Paver, M.A., has devoted much of her career and graduate studies on this topic. As a mother of five, it was the separation anxiety she experienced that sparked the creation of Stepping Stone School.

Peace of mind is a foundation component and guiding principle throughout the organization. Our professional caregivers are provided advanced training on the most current research and proven methods of how to guide parents and children through the stress of separating.

Some examples of our peace of mind practices:

• Reassurance through communication – our professional team is committed to sharing all parts of your child’s day with you. Our Tadpoles electronic reports and photos are one example;
• Warm welcomes and engaging activities that emphasize social and emotional development;
• Consistent hands-on nurturance and interaction; and
• Open door policy;

Children’s literature can help prepare your child too. Here are a few examples:

• The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn
• Owl Babies, by Martin Waddel
• Llama Llama Misses Mama, by Anna Dewdney
• I Love You All Day Long, by Francesca Rusackas
• You Go Away, by Dorothy Corey
• Oh My Baby, Little One, by Kathi Appelt
• Mama Always Comes Home, by Karma Wilson

Tips for Parents

• Bring a comfort item from home;
• Stay positive and reassuring;
• Resist the urge to return to your child if he or she is crying;
• Know that your child will be nurtured, happy and engaged in learning activities throughout the day.