About the Course

This session focuses on understanding and addressing school avoidance by uncovering the emotional, behavioral, and environmental factors that contribute to a student’s reluctance or refusal to attend school. Participants will learn how school avoidance differs from typical resistance and why it requires a compassionate, informed, and collaborative response rather than a purely compliance-based approach. The session explores common causes, warning signs, and the underlying functions of school avoidance, emphasizing the importance of early identification and coordinated support. Participants will gain practical, student-centered strategies to reduce anxiety, strengthen engagement, and support consistent attendance. The session highlights shared responsibility among adults and the value of thoughtful accommodations, clear communication, and relationship-based interventions that promote safety, belonging, and long-term academic success.