School Refusal

POSSIBLE REASONS BEHIND SCHOOL REFUSAL

Separation anxiety from family
Avoiding a situation at school that may be causing distress
To avoid school-based social situations
To avoid academics/assessments
To have access to preferred out-of-school activities such as playing video games, watching television, etc.

Children's Mobile Response & Stabalization Services (MRSS) is a resource that can be used for school refusal. Click on the link for more information.

CALL (877) 652-7624

School Refusal

School refusal can be described as when a child refuses to go to school on a regular basis or shows difficulty staying in school.

SIGNS OF SCHOOL REFUSAL

According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, children with school refusal may complain of physical symptoms shortly before it is time to leave for school or repeatedly ask to visit the school nurse. If the child is allowed to stay home, the symptoms quickly disappear, only to reappear the next morning. In some cases a child may refuse to leave the house.

Common physical symptoms include headaches, stomachaches, nausea, or diarrhea. But tantrums, inflexibility, separation anxiety, avoidance, and defiance may show up, too.

FAMILY INTERVENTIONS

Students with school refusal often benefit from a consistent morning routine. Waking up at the same time each morning and making sure there is enough time to prepare and ease into the day (getting cleaned up, dressed and having breakfast). Rushing in the morning can lead to feelings of distress for your child.
Practice going over your child's day the night before or in the morning before school. Reviewing the schedule for their day can help them mentally prepare for what to expect.
Practice Runs: On the missed school days, continue to practice the morning routine. You can even stay in the habit of driving to school.
On missed school days, a child with school avoidance should not engage in preferred activities such as utilizing screen time, and should instead be required to read, do school work or complete chores.
It is important to recognize and build on small successes. Praise your child for behaviors you want to increase.