Before we go into our extended St Patrick’s weekend, we would like to highlight the importance of preparation as a valuable support to minimise school avoidance behaviours.
Many students who struggle with school avoidance find school holidays difficult to manage as they fall out of routine and become overwhelmed with the idea of the upcoming semester.
Some practical strategies to prepare your child for the return to school next Wednesday include:
- Wake-up early the morning before school recommences to encourage an early-night sleep.
- Ask your child about school-life in a positive manner, focusing on things they enjoy. E.g. “What have been your highlights so far this year?”
- If your child is anxious, listen to concerns and reassure them.
- Communicate any barriers to attendance with the school as soon as possible.
- Check school bag, iPad, journal, pencil case, uniform are prepared the night before school recommences.
- Plan the route to school the night before including checking TFI app for transport updates.
- Limit excessive amounts of time on devices. This can help teenagers with mood and energy.
We encourage all families to enjoy the break. The strategies above are not intended to over-shadow family time or well-deserved rest and recuperation.