Mommy don’t go: The stories of separation anxiety of kindergarten pupils thru the lens of mothers

This phenomenological study aimed to explore the separation from home anxiety among kindergarten pupils from the perspective of mothers of Ibajay Central School Colongcolong Annex School Year 2022-2023. Using purposive sampling, five parents were selected as participants. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a researcher-made interview guide. The findings revealed that children exhibited excessive reliance on their parents, often requiring parental persuasion and showing trust only in their parents and close relatives. Parents noted that separation anxiety was linked to home training and parenting styles, which sometimes led to the child's fear of unfamiliar places and strangers, resulting in separation anxiety disorder. To address this, continuous parental support and understanding were deemed crucial. Parents faced challenges such as recurring issues, disruption of daily routines, and their children’s difficulties in social interactions. Coping mechanisms included engaging children in social activities, fostering self-motivation, and providing consistent care. Through these efforts, parents developed resilience, which in turn helped their children become more self-reliant and confident. The study indicates that increasing parents' awareness of separation anxiety, strengthening parent-child relationships, and integrating spiritual guidance can accelerate the recovery process and lead to more positive outcomes for both parents and children. The research emphasizes the critical role of thorough information sharing and resilient family support in addressing separation anxiety.