7yo suddenly refusing school & everything inbetween
2 answers /
Last post: 20/01/2024 at 7:36 pm
Hi all,
I've just signed up after 2 long hard weeks with my 7yo daughter.
She's always been a little anxious in her ways but nothing extreme so to speak.
She returned to school after Christmas break absolutely fine Weds was first day back. First week was a breeze (like always) and then the Tuesday of the 2nd week she came home crying (very unlike her) and has refused school ever since. She has still gone to school everyday after lots of refusal at home (over an hour one day) and refusal at the gates, even with the teachers (who she usually loves).
It's been 2 weeks of working with the school and dd and not much improvement. Thinking somethings happened at school etc.
However, This morning she had her usual Saturday morning swimming lesson (she's been going for 8-9 months) and she refused on the pool side. A real strong battle of will and crying and screaming, getting herself in a right tizz.
She's a September baby so the oldest of her class (year 2) so noone else is going through it atm, and I was the first of my friend group to have a baby so noone else around for advice.
Is it "just developmental" or is it possible to be something more, and if so, what's the next step.
Any help or advice would be very much appreciated.
Thank you 😊
Hi Kellie
I'm Catherine, one of the Parent Supporters here at Netmums. Thanks for sharing with us. Sorry to hear your daughter has been finding school so tough. Is she missing school or has she managed to go in for any time? When she is in school does she remain distressed? Has there been any changes in school or anything that might be making her feel worried? Has there been any changes at home or in the wider family which she may be picking up on? Sorry for asking so many questions, I just want to make sure we are pointing you in right direction for support.
Kellie, it's so hard seeing our children upset but many kids go through phases of feeling anxious or finding hard to separate from parents so you aren't alone. Are school able to offer her any support? You could also contact your GP for onward referral if you feel things are not improving? Alternatively, if she enjoys books, you may find a story about this is a good way to talk to her about her feelings and reassure her. This article also has some other suggestions of supports: My Child Hates School: What Can I Do? - Netmums
Hopefully some of our lovely community will be along soon to offer support but please come back to us if you would like to chat some more.
Catherine
