Does your child resist going to school, feel anxious and scared at the mere thought of school?
What is School Refusal?
School refusal, also known as school avoidance, is a complex issue affecting children and adolescents worldwide.
Here is some fascinating information, statistics and insights about school refusal:
- School refusal affects around 1 to 5 percent of school aged children, with some studies suggesting up to 28 percent of students may experience it at some point during their school years.
- It is most common in children aged 10 to 13, often during the transition from primary to secondary school. Peaks are also seen in younger children aged 5 to 6 and in older adolescents aged 14 to 15.
- School refusal occurs in both boys and girls, though some studies show it may be slightly more common in boys during early school years and in girls during adolescence.
- Anxiety disorders, depression, and social phobia are often linked to school refusal. High levels of family stress, conflict, or parental anxiety can also contribute to the problem.
- Children who struggle academically or have learning difficulties are more likely to avoid school, and experiences of bullying or peer conflict are significant triggers.
- Short-term effects of school refusal include falling behind academically, becoming socially withdrawn, and creating extra stress for the family.
- Long-term impacts can include ongoing mental health struggles, reduced education and job opportunities, and lasting social challenges. The COVID pandemic made school refusal more common by increasing anxiety and disrupting regular school routines.
- Around the world, school refusal is viewed differently depending on culture and education systems. In Japan, for example, the issue is known as “futoko” and is widely recognised with its own cultural and social implications.
Understanding and addressing school refusal does not have to be a multifaceted approach involving ongoing appointments to a variety of psychologists or educators. All it takes is 30 days on our program and you will see your child transform from anxious and withdrawn to happy and confident.
How NLP Helps Kids Conquer School Refusal and Return to School with Confidence
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) therapy offers a promising approach to addressing this problem.NLP therapy focuses on understanding and changing thought patterns and behaviours.
It helps children and adolescents reframe negative thoughts associated with school, transforming fear and anxiety into confidence and positivity. Through techniques like visualisation and anchoring, NLP enables students to build new, empowering associations with the school environment.
One of the key aspects of NLP is its emphasis on communication and rapport-building. We work closely with students to understand their unique experiences and perspectives, creating a supportive and trusting relationship. This rapport is crucial for helping students feel safe and understood, making them more open to change.
Additionally, NLP therapy involves setting achievable goals and breaking them down into manageable steps. For school-refusing students, this might mean gradually increasing their time spent at school, starting with short visits and building up to full days. This incremental approach helps reduce overwhelm and builds a sense of accomplishment.
Parents and teachers can also benefit from NLP techniques, learning strategies to support and encourage the student effectively. By transforming your parenting style, you can foster an increasingly positive and supportive environment at home and school.
NLP therapy offers valuable tools and techniques to help students overcome school refusal by transforming negative thought patterns, building supportive relationships, and setting achievable goals. Through our custom designed program, your child can regain their confidence and thrive in their educational journey.
If you would like to find out more and see how our coaching can help you, don’t hesitate to have a chat, obligation free. Click on the link below to book in a time that best suits you.