How can you best support a child who seems anxious during drop-off times?

Supporting a child who appears anxious during drop-off times involves recognizing and validating their feelings, as well as providing them with strategies to cope with their anxiety. The approach of reassuring the child and offering a comforting activity helps to create a sense of security and stability in an otherwise stressful moment.

By reassuring them, you acknowledge their emotions and convey that it's normal to feel nervous about being separated from their parents. This validation can help the child feel understood and supported. Additionally, providing a comforting activity—such as a favorite toy, a book, or a calming craft—gives the child something familiar to focus on, which can distract them from their anxiety and ease the transition into the camp environment. This strategy fosters a sense of belonging and helps them adjust more smoothly.

This approach stands out as the most effective because it prioritizes emotional support and helps the child build resilience in handling their feelings, rather than simply redirecting or altering the behavior of those around them.