For Kaiako

School distress is a complex issue that requires multiple strategies to address it effectively. 

It's important to recognise that not every approach will work for every mokopuna. Here are some strategies that schools can implement:

Create a supportive environment:

• Have open communication to discuss concerns with whanau as soon as they arise

• Be aware that school distress is not truancy or bad parenting

• Create a team approach - whanau and mokopuna, senior leadership, SENCO or LSC, teacher   

• Identify who the safe people or the adults the mokopuna connect to are in the school 

• Be flexible in your approach - try different strategies

• Find out if there are any extenuating issues, e.g. bullying

• Teach self-regulation skills to every child as part of their daily routine

• Be empathetic and support the whanau; they will find the situation highly stressful. Introduce them to other whanau who may have been through school distress with their mokopuna so they know they are not alone

• Include outside agencies if required, e.g. RTLB, Learning Support, etc.

• Support the whanau in accessing other professionals who may help, such as counsellors, mental health services, support groups, etc.

Create a plan for coming to school, such as:

• Begin with gradual steps over a while, for example, having the parent bring the mokopuna to the class and stay for a time, then wait outside, then wait outside the gates

• Later start times

• Create a transition place before going to class, e.g. the library, the SENCO’s office, etc

• Let them bring a toy they feel safe with 

• Peer them with a buddy

• A phased return to school if there has been a period of absence

• Include the mokopuna in this process - find out what will work for them

Address any issues that could be causing anxiety:

• If a noisy classroom is an issue, provide ear muffs

• Is there a reliever in today? Has the teacher been away?

• Have a safe place in the school where mokopuna can go if they are feeling anxious.

• Give extra time for assessments, give extra assistance and reduce workload if this is a cause of stress.

• Are there any events that may be causing extra stress or worry, e.g. speeches, school camp, etc? 

Celebrate success:

• Decide what success looks like for the rest of the term and work towards small goals

• Acknowledge any achievements, no matter how small

Where to next?