Whether it’s a child’s first day of preschool, a caregiver heading back to work, or even just leaving a little one with a trusted family member, separation anxiety can be an emotional rollercoaster for both child and parent. The tears, the guilt, the clinginess-it’s a natural part of development, but that doesn’t make it easy.

So how do we navigate these moments with empathy, patience, and the right support? What’s normal and when should we be concerned? We spoke to Dr. Carol Chakua, Psychologist and Parent Coach.