Even when a child is absent for a long period of time, it is still very important to keep in contact with school, updating them of the situation.
Some strategies you may find helpful
- Help your child to maintain friendships and social connections. Arrange play dates, outings or virtual meet ups with classmates to keep them socially engaged.
- Support your child to maintain a consistent routine at home. Try to maintain regular sleep, meal and study schedules.
- Speak with school staff about creating a stepped support plan. This could begin with very small steps such as practising the school routine at home or visiting the school after hours.
- Seek professional advice and recommendations, and try any strategies they recommend with your child.
- Try to keep records of your child’s engagement and response to different strategies, especially those based on professional advice. There may be things that work better than others.
- Help your child attend professional appointments by preparing them for meetings in advance and arranging appointments at times that suit your child best. Online meetings may be a better option for your child.
- Advocate for your child in professional meetings to ensure their voice is heard.
- You are likely to have a good understanding of the reasons behind your child’s difficulties and you can ensure this is shared with professionals supporting them.
It may also be useful to try or revisit some strategies suggested here.