With the school term back in full swing, many children are excited to see their friends and return to routine, but for some families, the return to school can bring anxiety, fear and school refusal.

How can parents support children who are struggling? Should we listen to their fears and give them time, or can staying home make returning even harder?

School refusal is often a sign that something deeper is going on, whether it’s anxiety, friendships, bullying, academic pressure or feeling overwhelmed…

Have you experienced school refusal as a parent? What helped your child, and what advice would you give to other families going through it?

Joining Andrea to discuss is Neurodevelopmental Therapist and Founder of CogniClinic.ie, Ollwyn Moran and listeners.