This article was last updated on 23 October 2020
It can be stressful and upsetting if your child is persistently refusing to go to school. It can also be difficult to uncover the worries that cause them to feel this way. Deputy headteacher Kaniz Mulji is familiar with this situation; here are her top tips to help you encourage your child back through the school gates.
Kaniz's tips:
- Try to talk to your child about what is making them nervous. Use phrases like "It sounds like you're having a hard morning" or "Is there something you'd like to tell me about school?" to open up conversation.
- If your child isn't opening up, speak to the school sooner rather than later.
- Help your child feel a sense of belonging at school. Ask your teacher if your child would be able to bring something from home, like their favourite book or toy.
- Remind them of the things they can look forward to.
- If they are still reluctant, speak to the school about building a support plan.
- Use this process to build relationships with your child's teachers.
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