School refusal
School refusal is when your child avoids going to school, often due to challenges or demands they are experiencing at school.
It is different from wagging or skipping school and can happen despite best efforts and support from parents and carers.
Managing school refusal
There are steps you can take to help your child return to school and feel supported.
It is important for you and the school to work together.
Stay consistent in your efforts, it can take time to resolve.
Talk with your child
Understand why your child doesn’t want to go to school.
It can be hard for some children to communicate how they are feeling. Start a conversation when your child is calm and relaxed.
You can try asking:
- Are you worried?
- How can I help?
- What would be a good outcome?
While some problems may seem small to adults, children don’t yet have the coping skills to handle them the same way. By actively listening and showing your child that their feelings matter, you are creating a safe space for them to talk.
Start a conversation with the school
Talk with your child’s teacher, principal or school staff about your concerns and the challenges your child is having.
Both you and the school will need to respect each other's opportunity to share thoughts, ideas and give feedback.
Depending on the severity, age and circumstances, some options the school may explore are:
- targeted support for your child
- referral to the Student Attendance and Engagement team
- referral to the Student Wellbeing, Inclusion and Program Services (SWIPS)
- personalised learning plan
- alternative education pathways, such as school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.
Find more information about advocating for your child at school.
Get a health check
It can be helpful to rule out any health concerns. You can get free:
- hearing tests
- eye tests - speak with an optometrist, eye tests for children are often free with Medicare
- dental treatment
- therapy services.
Speak with your GP for referrals to other services and community support.
If you need more support
Contact free phone and online services for both you and your child: