Children in Denmark struggling with school attendance, survey reveals

Many children are struggling with a reluctance to attend school. According to a recent survey, one in five children in grades 4 and 7 rarely or never wants to go to school, a figure that rises to 25% for seventh-graders. Concerns are growing over the number of children feeling this way, with long school days, boring lessons, a sense of not being themselves, and fear of tests being cited as major reasons for their reluctance.

Daniel Bach Johnsen, a psychologist associated with Copenhagen University, has researched school absenteeism under the Back2School project, which several municipalities have implemented. Here are five suggestions for parents dealing with children who resist going to school:

1. **Keep Asking Questions**: If your child struggles with school, consistently ask them why. Children may find it difficult to articulate their feelings, so persistent and curious questioning is crucial to uncovering the underlying issues.

2. **Foster Collaboration with the School**: Attend meetings with teachers alongside your child. This collaborative approach ensures that your child feels involved in discussions about their education, rather than left out of decisions.

3. **Plan the Day**: Discuss the next day’s schedule with your child to lessen uncertainty. Knowing what classes are ahead can help ease anxiety, similar to preparing for a presentation at work.

4. **Break Down Barriers**: For children returning to school after an absence, reintroducing the experience thoughtfully can be beneficial. Start with easier subjects or familiar teachers to build positive associations.

5. **Maintain Social Connections**: Encourage your child to keep in touch with friends outside of school. Engaging in activities with peers can help motivate them to return to the school environment.