What to do if your child refuses to go to school | Schools

A child who refuses or misses a lot of school with vague physical symptoms is often considered to have a school phobia.

These symptoms are usually the type that people get when they are upset or worried. These include stomachaches, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness or dizziness. These symptoms occur in the morning and worsen by school departure time.

Your child is otherwise healthy and vigorous. School phobia is very common and affects 5% of all elementary school age children. The symptoms often begin in September or October. These children are usually afraid of leaving home in general.

Ways to help your child overcome their fears:

Insist on an immediate return to school. The best therapy is to be in school everyday.

Be extra firm on school days. Do not ask your child how he feels because it will encourage him to complain.

Work closely with your child's physician to determine the cause of the illness. If the symptoms are anxiety related they should return to school after being seen by the doctor.

Talk to the staff at school.

Talk with your child about their fears and worries.

Encourage play with classmates. Usually school-phobic children tend to prefer to be with their parents, play indoors or watch television. Encourage your child to join clubs or athletic activities. Have them play at other friend's homes.

Seek additional help if your child continues to have fears or separation problems, or seems withdrawn or depressed.