SUPPORT FROM HOME

In addition to the child’s teachers, you may contact e.g. the principal, school nurse, school psychologist or school social worker. If the child has repeated physical symptoms, e.g. a stomach-ache that cannot be explained by an illness, please get in touch with the school, e.g. the school nurse.

It is always better to arrive at school even late rather than not at all. The longer the absences continue, the harder it is to return to school.

Parent/guardian

• Do not approve and sign absences if you are not sure of their reasons, instead take the matter up with the school.
• As a parent, be strict but friendly: expect them to attend school.
• Stick to the weekday rhythm and routines even if your child or adolescent is not going to school: wake up in the morning, mealtimes, do school assignments and homework over the course of the day.
• Identify rewards that promote staying at home and try to reduce them. Is the child or adolescent allowed to sleep later or play? Are they getting parents’ full attention?
• Strengthen your child’s confidence in themselves and being able to face difficult feelings. Avoiding emotions only increases fear and anxiety.

Source:
#SKYKoulussa, slide series “Läsnäolon tukeminen koulussa”, HUS slides (on how to support school attendance, useful support methods)