Record Rates of Absent Students Currently, the largest problem facing schools right now is Chronic Absenteeism. According to statistics from 2018 to 2023, the rate of absences almost doubled from 15% to 26%. Obviously, this a Post Epidemic problem that is multi-faceted and complex, but the outcome leads to learning setbacks that negatively affect you and your child. Chronic Absenteeism vs. Truancy? Because of pandemic closures, kids were learning online and in-person attendance may feel less necessary, or there may be greater confusion in terms of absentee rules. It is important to note that Chronic absenteeism is when students miss at least 10% of the school year. Truancy usually refers to unexcused absences, whereas Chronic Absence is broader and encompasses ALL absences a student may have-excused or not. These absences can lead to suspension and or expulsion so be sure to know what your school’s policy entails. Reasons for Absence Though some absences are students that are legitimately physically sick, research is finding there are a variety of reasons why children have school avoidance. 5% of students have school-related anxiety which may be linked to problems with other children, academic struggles, failure fears, and personality conflicts with a teacher. A study linked children with ADHD, autism and developmental delays as being twice as likely to be absent, and there is an ever increasing struggle with mental health issues such as depression/anxiety. All of these things can lead to a feeling of disconnection, boredom and lack of motivation adding to your child’s avoidance of school. Chronic Absence has a Negative Effect Though these are genuine emotional struggles, one should not underestimate the negative impact of chronic absences. Aside from being at a higher risk of not learning to read, falling behind, and eventually dropping out of school, the student misses out on other important provisions made by a school setting such as counseling services, important socialization skills, and ensuring daytime meals. So, what can you do when your child is resistant to going to school? TIPS to Help a Child Who Doesn’t Want to Go to School First and foremost discuss with your child why they don’t want to go to school. There may be underlying emotional reasons, maybe the students concerns need to be acknowledged and resolved with a solution based conversation. Maybe some of the reasons will require communication with the school staff, teachers, school counselor and or health professionals. You can advocate for your child while standing firm on the necessity of going to school. Don’t keep your child home unless they are actually sick. The general rule is keep your child home if there is a fever greater than 101 degrees F, an infectious illness, vomiting and or diarrhea. Be mindful that often stomachaches and headaches are based in anxiety. If they do stay home without the above physical symptoms, consider not allowing special treatment such as extra screen time. If they have other chronic health issues like epilepsy, diabetes, or asthma your school nurse can help create an IEP (individualized education program) or 504 plan. Sleep and Morning Prep reduce anxiety. Work towards ensuring your child is getting the required amount of sleep-this will reduce much of that morning fight which leads to resistance. It helps the morning go smoother if the night before clothes are picked, and lunches and bags are prepped and ready to go. It is also helpful to develop a ‘get to school strategy’ in case of bus, car or work problems that may cause challenges in getting your child to school. Help your child find extra curricular school based interests that they enjoy. Having something to look forward to in the school day, like band or robotics, gives them a common aim with fellow classmates, this bond forms necessary friendships and a sense of self. And finally, what your child may be craving is a individualized attention. One on one help can serve to get them caught up and feel confident in their academic endeavors, and provide a mentor who can help them with motivational plans and structured feedback. To help your child with all they need to stay motivated, positive and academically on track, please feel free to reach out to an Elite Tutor. We are here, we care, and we are equipped to help you.
