“Even when we're apart, a piece of my heart is always with you.” - Today Tomorrow & Always
How a Bead Helped My Children Cope with Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety in children is more common than we often talk about—especially during the school years. Even something as routine as a school drop-off can trigger tears, panic, and an overwhelming sense of fear in little ones. As a mum of four, I’ve been there. Two of my kids struggled deeply with separation anxiety between the ages of 5 and 11, and I remember the heartbreak like it was yesterday.
Walking away while they cried out my name… it’s the kind of moment that stays with you. The kind that has you walking away misty-eyed or straight-up bawling with guilt. I knew they had to go to school, but I also knew I had to find a way to ease their anxiety—and fast.
That’s when the idea for our children’s anxiety bead came to life. And after showing the kids the different shapes I could make, they both chose the heart-shaped bead, which in a way felt like the natural choice.
A Keepsake Bead That Brings Comfort
I wanted to create something simple but powerful. A keepsake bead my kids could carry with them—something that held a piece of me, even when we were apart. I used a small lock of my hair, carefully sealed inside the heart bead, and explained its meaning to them.
Whenever they felt overwhelmed or anxious, they could hold their heart anxiety bead and remember: Mum is with me. I’m safe. I’ve got this.
The difference it made was incredible. That tiny bead helped ground them during their most stressful moments—whether it was at the school gates, a sleepover, or just a tough day.
Helping Children Feel Safe When Apart
Separation anxiety doesn’t just affect school-aged kids. It can happen at any age—and for all sorts of reasons. For example, children of military parents often experience extended periods of separation due to deployments or training. It’s tough on everyone, but especially on young children who associate their parents with feeling safe. I know my kids really struggled when their father was deployed or just away on training exercises for months at a time.
That’s why we now offer matching heart bead sets—one for Mum, one for Dad, and one for the children. It’s a beautiful, tangible way to stay connected even when you’re miles apart.
More Than a Bead—It’s a Bond
These heart beads are more than just jewellery. They’re a symbol of connection, safety, and unconditional love. For any child who struggles with being apart from their parent, having a personalised anxiety keepsake can bring immense comfort and help them cope in a big way.
Whether you're a parent navigating school anxiety, military separation, or any kind of distance—this small but meaningful solution might be just what your child needs.
Because sometimes, all it takes is a little piece of love they can hold in their hand.
If you have a child like I did that needs that little extra comfort when being separated, I'm so glad you found me. We offer beads in different shapes as well as charms that work perfectly for helping our little (and sometimes not so little) ones feel close and connected.
