Unfortunately 5 to 7.5 million school students are chronically absent each year. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing at least 18 days of school a year or two days each month. Students who are chronically absent are less likely to succeed in school academically and more likely to drop out of school.
Habits such as getting enough sleep each night, eating nutritious foods, being physically active, and proper handwashing can help children stay healthy and attend school regularly. Annual physical examinations, regular dental check-ups, and obtaining the recommended vaccinations can also keep kids healthier.
There are times when a child definitely needs to be absent from school. Children should stay out of school if they have a fever of 100 degrees or higher, diarrhea, rash, vomiting or a contagious disease, such as chicken pox.
Instill in your child the importance of attending school regularly and the negative effects of having too many absences.
If you think your child is trying to avoid going to school, talk to your child and find out what is keeping him/her from wanting to go to school on a regular basis.
The school has staff such as the teacher, administrator, school nurse, school psychologist, adjustment or guidance counselor that can help your child maintain school attendance. Children with mental health issues including anxiety, depression, or school avoidance may also need help from the school nurse, school adjustment or guidance counselor, and school psychologist. If a child is getting bullied outside of school, he/she may need assistance from school personnel . The school nurse can help manage the medical needs of children with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and migraine headaches to attend school more regularly.