Parents/guardians want their children to succeed at school, spiritually, socially and academically. Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in September so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Good attendance will help children do well later in life!

The connection between chronic absence and a student’s academic achievement is clear. Even being late to school may lead to poor attendance and impact a student’s academic achievement. If children don’t show up for school regularly in the early years, they miss out on fundamental reading and math skills and the chance to build a habit of good attendance that will carry them into later life. Missing 10 percent of the school year—about 18 days a year or just two days every month is considered chronic absenteeism. Chronic absenteeism can predict lower test scores, especially if the problem persists for more than a year. 

WHAT YOU CAN YOU DO TO HELP YOUR CHILD/REN SUCCEED AT SCHOOL?

• Set a regular bed time and morning routine. 

• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before. 

• Find out what day school starts and make sure your child has the required shots. 

• Introduce your child to her teachers and classmates before school starts to help her/him transition.

• Don’t let your child stay home unless s/he is truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home. 

• If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make her/him feel comfortable and excited about learning. 

• Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent. 

• Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.