Good attendance at school is the single most important factor in ensuring that children and young people have the best opportunities in adult life. Being in school gives children the best chance to learn, make friends and get the most from their education.
If your child is feeling worried about going to school, or you are struggling with their attendance here are some tips to work through together. Every child is different, and these are only suggestions. What might work for one child, may not work for another. If one method doesn’t work, try a different one the next day.
It can feel stressful when your child is feeling this way, so please come and talk to us so we can support your family.
Pushing Palms Together
Get your child to push their palms together, hold tight and then release. Next, squeeze their fists together as tight as possible and then relax. Repeat the steps until they feel calmer.
7/11 Breathing
Get your child to breath in through their nose for 7 seconds and out through their mouth for 11 seconds. This technique is a great way to feel relaxed very quickly.
5 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1 Challenge
This helps your child connect with their senses and can be relaxing.
Name 5 things they can see,
4 things they can hear,
3 things they can touch,
2 things they can smell,
1 thing you can taste.
Starting school https://www.justonenorfolk.nhs.uk/school-life/resources-for-families/starting-school/
Supporting transition https://www.justonenorfolk.nhs.uk/school-life/resources-for-families/supporting-transition/
Supporting SEND transitions https://www.schools.norfolk.gov.uk/pupil-needs/special-educational-needs-and-disabilities/send-transition-resources
Return to school activities https://www.justonenorfolk.nhs.uk/school-life/resources-for-families/return-to-school-activities/
EBSA support https://www.schools.norfolk.gov.uk/teaching-and-learning/wellbeing-in-education/emotionally-based-school-avoidance
EBSA support https://www.annafreud.org/schools-and-colleges/resources/addressing-emotionally-based-school-avoidance/
Tips for good attendance https://www.schools.norfolk.gov.uk/-/media/schools/files/pupil-safety-and-behaviour/school-attendance/attendance-tips-for-parents-pamphlet.pdf