After the long holiday, everything seems strange again, worlds away from comfort and safety. But on the other hand, there are all those toys at school and a child or two with a familiar friendly face. Young children know that they can't fend for themselves, that they depend on the protection of others. So it's no wonder that many are uneasy about separating after a long period of family togetherness. Teachers and parents have devised many ways of reassuring them, and at the same time, supporting children's urge for independence.
Many preschool programs recommend slow entry for new children.
Parents of newcomers have an opportunity to tell the teacher what they know about their children's special likes, dislikes, and needs. Returning students' parents should be encouraged to relate any important events or behaviors that occurred over the holiday. For many parents, much of the recommended gradual separation is difficult or impossible to arrange with work schedules. Give us time, and we'll do fine. Adele M. Brodkin, Ph.D., a psychologist, has been a consultant to early childhood programs for more than 20 years.