Which symptom may suggest the presence of separation anxiety in children?

The symptom indicative of separation anxiety in children is loss of interest in activities. Children who experience separation anxiety may demonstrate significant distress when separated from their primary caregivers, leading to feelings of sadness or anxiety that can manifest as a disinterest in activities they typically enjoy. This disengagement can be a reaction to the fear of separation or the anticipation of being away from their caregivers, inhibiting their ability to participate in and find joy in everyday activities.

In contrast, acceptance of a new environment is generally a sign of resilience and adaptability, which would not suggest separation anxiety. Increased appetite might reflect a variety of factors unrelated to anxiety, such as growth spurts or different emotional states. Frequent smiling indicates comfort and happiness, which would also be inconsistent with the experience of anxiety regarding separation from caregivers.