My child doesn't want to go to school, what can I do?

Starting the school day with tears, tantrums, or outright refusal from your child can be incredibly distressing for parents and guardians. If you find yourself in this situation, rest assured that you're not alone. 

Many parents and guardians grapple with the challenge of getting their children to school, but there are techniques and support available to help navigate this. Let’s take a look at why your child may struggle with wanting to get to school, and how you might help them move past this.

Some common causes of school refusal

The first step is understanding why your child may be refusing to go to school, that way you can start to address the issues properly. Here are some common issues your child might be reluctant to go to school:

• Bullying: If your child is experiencing bullying at school, they may feel fearful or anxious about attending, so it’s important to spot the signs of bullying.

• Tiredness: Fatigue from lack of sleep or excessive activities can lead to reluctance or refusal to go to school.

• Overwhelm: The demands of schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social pressures can be overwhelming for some children, contributing to school refusal.

• Stress/Anxiety: General anxiety or specific anxieties related to school, particularly back to school anxiety, can make the thought of attending school unbearable, leading to refusal to go to school.

• Illness: Physical ailments or undiagnosed health issues may cause discomfort that makes attending school difficult, resulting in school refusal.

What happens If my child refuses to go to school

In the UK, parents and guardians have a legal obligation to ensure their child receives a suitable education, which typically means attending school regularly. Persistent school refusal can have serious consequences, including fines, legal action, and involvement from education welfare officers. Moreover, consistent non-attendance can significantly impact a child's education, social development, and future opportunities.

Our top tips to help your child unlock the joy of learning

One of the best ways to encourage children to go to school is to help them enjoy it and unlock the joy of learning. 

Part of that journey is identifying what your child is struggling with specifically and how to help them cope with that. Let’s take a look at some of our top tips.

1. Communicating openly and with understanding: Create a safe and open environment for your child to express their feelings about school. Listen empathetically and validate their concerns without judgment. Be sure to employ positive parenting techniques.

2. Identify triggers: Work with your child to identify any specific triggers or stressors that may be contributing to their reluctance to go to school. Addressing these issues directly can help alleviate their anxiety.

3. Establish a routine around school: Establishing a consistent daily routine can provide structure and predictability, reducing anxiety about the school day.

4. Promote positive associations: Encourage your child to focus on the aspects of school they enjoy or look forward to, such as seeing friends, participating in extracurricular activities, or learning new subjects.

5. Seek professional support: Parents need to recognize that seeking professional support for their child's school refusal is not a sign of failure or inadequacy. Rather, it's a proactive step towards addressing their child's needs and ensuring they receive the help and support necessary for their well-being and academic success. Just as we turn to medical professionals for physical health concerns, seeking guidance from school counsellors, therapists, or mental health professionals can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing school refusal. By reaching out for help, parents demonstrate their commitment to their child's emotional and educational development, fostering a supportive environment where their child can thrive.

6. Don’t be afraid to change schools: It may seem drastic but it is possible the school your child is attending just isn’t the right fit. Have a look into your options, look at local schools and consider whether or not it might be best to move schools.

Could private tuition help my child feel better at school?

Private tuition can really turn things around for children who are struggling with school refusal. Tuition can really help children engage with their learning again, and can be a way for children to catch up if they have missed time at school.

Our understanding and friendly tutors are trained to provide personalised support and encouragement, helping children build confidence, develop essential skills, and rediscover the joy of learning. With tailored tutoring sessions, your child can receive the additional academic support they need while also boosting their self-esteem and motivation.

Ready to unlock the joy of learning for your child? Book a free trial with Explore Learning today and discover how our tutors can make a positive difference in your child's education journey.