Coming to school

School is not just about lessons—it’s a place to make friends and try new things!

Missing school means missing out on learning and being with friends, so it’s important to go as much as you can.

We understand that some children and parents do get anxious about school.

For children, it can be hard to understand and communicate these feelings of anxiety and worry. 

If you or your child feels worried about school, talk to someone at the school. They will know how to help.

Read on for tips for helping your child overcome anxiety around coming to school.

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Communication is key

Talk with your child. Let them know it's safe to talk about anything. Choose a quiet time, so you can really listen.

Conversation starters can help. Use stories or social posts about our Attendance Campaign to begin.

Tell your child it's okay to feel as they do. Encourage them to explain their feelings.

For young children, help them find words for their feelings. You might say, “When I feel scared, I get a knot in my tummy. Maybe you feel scared about school. How does it make you feel?”

Ask your child daily how they feel. You can use pictures, like traffic lights, numbers, or faces showing happy, straight, or sad, to help them share their feelings.