Attendance Problems?

Research shows that early identification of warning signs is key to successful school refusal interventions.

Checklist for Teachers and Parents
​ Look out for behaviour including:
​

1. Complaints about attending school
2. Reluctance to talk with parents about school
3. Sleeping difficulties (under or over sleeping, frequently tired at home and school)
4. Social withdrawal, isolating behaviour at home
5. Excessive internet use (gaming, youtube and social media)
6. Feeling sick before school (waking up with a headache, stomach ache or sore throat)
7. Frequent crying spells or temper tantrums / aggressive behaviour
8. Separation anxiety  (difficulty leaving the house, getting out of the car or in the school gate)
9. Unexplained absences (or often running late to school)
10. Frequent crying with requests to go home
11. Absences on significant days (tests, oral presentations, physical education classes)
12. Conflict with teacher/s and parents
13. Peer relational problems (being bullied)
14. Academic difficulties
15. Excessive worry about a parent when at school
16. Panic symptoms
17. Threats of self-harm

If your student or child exhibits several of these symptoms he or she requires a prompt response from both parents and the school and may require professional help. Studies confirm that children who refuse to go to school often present with low self-esteem, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Early intervention is vital to prevent problems becoming entrenched, and prolonging periods of absence from school.

For a FREE 30 minute phone consultation contact John Chellew on 0409024485

John Chellew – Mental Health Social Worker
Bayside School Refusal Clinic
Email: john@schoolrefusal.com.au
Web: www.schoolrefusal.com.au