Truancy
What to do when you discover your child is truanting
If your child is caught truanting, you may receive a call or a message from the school. While this can be upsetting and surprising, it's important not to get angry or punish your child, but instead try to talk to them about how they are feeling, and why they have been avoiding school Your child may be having problems which they need help with, so try to offer a trusting environment in which they can talk honestly with you.
It is also important to respond to any messages or calls that you or your child may have received from the school as the situation may get worse if you do not take action. You can ask for an interpreter to be provided if you need one.
Is truancy such a big deal?
It may not always seem like a big deal if your child has skipped a few lessons - you may even have done it yourself when you were at school - however, it’s important to deal with the issue. Aside from the potential dangers of your child being unsupervised you, as a parent, are legally responsible for keeping your child in school, and could face fines if the truancy persists.
Take any contact from the school seriously and make sure that your son or daughter understands the importance of the situation. Your child missing school could be a sign that she or he is having serious problems. They may be being bullied, or having trouble with school work, or struggling to deal with situations at home. All of these situations can impact on a child’s behaviour.
Coping with a truanting child
You may already feel overwhelmed with different problems. Life as a parent can be difficult and can sometimes seem like one crisis after another. Try to deal with problems as they arise, one stage at a time. Accept any offers of help that seem appropriate and, if you need any further support, there are many services available. Find out what's available in your local area, preferably before things reach crisis point. You may be able to get practical support, such as:
- a home help if you are suffering from ill health
- a nursery place for younger children
- an after-school club for older children
- someone who can help you with interpretation and translation
Your local social services, library or family doctor may be able to help you find these services. Let the school know about anything else that is going on, and ensure your child knows that you are on their side.
To read the article from Family Lives and watch the video please click on the link below
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