Goodbye Rituals
To support babies through separation by establishing predictable, reassuring goodbye routines.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Participates in goodbye ritual
- Settles more quickly over time
- Anticipates parent's return
- Shows trust in key person
Materials
- Window for waving
- Goodbye song chart
- Photo of family
- Transition comfort items
Instructions
CREATING RITUAL: Work with each family to create a consistent goodbye: perhaps two kisses, a special wave, a particular phrase. Consistency makes separation predictable and therefore manageable.
SUPPORTING PARENTS: Parents often find separation harder than babies. Reassure: 'It's hard to leave. But you're doing the right thing. We'll take good care of them. You can call anytime.'
AFTER PARENT LEAVES: Once the parent leaves, provide warm comfort: 'Mummy's gone to work now. She always comes back. Let's find something lovely to do.' Don't dismiss feelings—acknowledge and redirect.
CELEBRATING REUNIONS: When parents return, make it positive: 'Look who's here! Mummy's back! You've had such a good day!' Help babies connect leaving with always returning.