Why does my child refuse to go to school?

School avoidance can reflect genuine distress, not simply an unwillingness to follow rules. Anxiety, academic struggles, perfectionism, bullying, and problems with peers can all contribute. Some children experience real stomachaches, headaches, or nausea around school attendance. HealthyChildren.org

Start by discussing physical symptoms with your child’s medical provider and exploring what happens at school. Work with school staff and, when needed, a mental health professional to create a supported return plan. Bullying or threats need to be addressed—not treated as fears your child should simply tolerate. The aim is to understand the barrier and help your child participate safely, rather than relying only on punishment or allowing avoidance to continue indefinitely. HealthyChildren.org

My approach makes room to understand what feels hard about school without starting from blame. Learn about my approach to working with young people or explore support for anxiety and life changes. We can discuss whether my services fit the concerns a family is facing.