Apathy to going to school is a common psychology in children. ‘School avoidance’, ‘school refusal’ or ‘school phobia’ all these terms can be used to describe this apathy. At least 5% of children show this behavior in their childhood. This is an anxiety disorder that may persist even the child grows old and ready to go to elementary school unless it is not treated properly. According to a caregiver in a Childcare in Diamond Bar, CA, they meet this behavior of irrational persistent fear of going to school in students every year. They want to stay in close contact with their parents or caregivers of the class. School phobic children are often insecure, sensitive and do not know how to control their emotions. They do not want to socialize with other children, and always appear anxious. They become physically ill at the thought of attending school.

A daycare caregiver in Diamond Bar, CA tells that it can be a stressful experience for both children and caregivers when they meet these types of children at the beginning of the session. They cry or throw tantrums in the class. The school phobic children often complain of stomach aches, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, etc. Caregivers and school authorities experience a very tough time handling these children delicately because forcing, yell, scolding do not work on these children, rather, it enhances the situation. Parents at home also find it difficult to send their children to school.

Psychologist in a daycare advises that parents should hold patience if they have kids who refuse to go to school. Rather than forcing them to go to school, they should search out the underlying cause behind this behavior. Some children have this behavioral problem from birth and they always want to cling to their parents. Some changes in the family like move, divorce, death, or other traumatic events may also create school avoidance behavior. Fear of poor performance or poor relations with teachers and peers may make children refuse school in higher school. Sometimes low self-esteem also makes children reluctant to go to school.

A psychologist gives some tips for helping your children overcome this fear. They say that parents at first must talk to their children and ask the reason why they do not want to go to school. Show your sympathy when they become upset about their school. Consult with the school authority regarding this problem. They are much more experienced than you because they have to face these types of children every year. They may help you. tell your children the story of your school days and how you enjoyed being there with teachers and peers. Be extra firm to send your children to school. Keep discussing physical symptoms of anxiety to a minimum in the morning when they are getting ready for school.

But, if your child’s anxiety is severe you have to take the advice of a special person. At first, consult your pediatrician and after that, if he can suggest to you whether it is serious enough to consult a child psychologist.