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My child suddenly doesn't want to go to school

5 replies

JackReacher2029 · 17/09/2026 07:50

My child has recently started saying that they don't want to go to school. This came quite suddenly, as they were generally happy going before.
They haven't mentioned any particular problem with their teacher or classmates, and when I ask what is wrong, they usually just say that they don't want to go. In the mornings, they can become quite upset and keep asking to stay at home.
I've tried talking to them calmly and asking whether anything happened at school, but I don't want to keep pushing if they aren't ready to talk about it.
Has anyone else experienced this with their child? How did you find out what was really bothering them, and what helped them feel comfortable going back to school?
I'd really appreciate hearing other parents' experiences.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
TeenToTwenties · 17/09/2026 08:08

How old?
Have you spoken to the teacher?

Overthebow · 17/09/2026 08:12

How old is your DC? What are they like when seeing their friends after school this week, has there been any issues?

CrazyCatLady2026 · 17/09/2026 08:23

How old? its very different to a 5 year old refusing than a 15 year old

JackReacher2029 · 18/09/2026 13:00

He is 5 years old and I have console him very much but I don't know what is the issue.

https://freshsimtracker.com/

OP posts:
redskyAtNigh · 18/09/2026 13:17

If you've eliminated any specific incident that might have caused the worry, then this might just be fairly normal behaviour at 5. There is a step up in expectations at school in terms of a change from last year and they suddenly realise that what seemed like a bit of a novelty is now a "day in, day out" thing.

I remember my 5 year old telling me very earnestly that he could read and write now, so he didn't need to go to school any more.

Is he ok once he actually gets to school and is settled in? Check with his teacher.

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