Help! What Should I Do if My Teen Is Skipping Classes!

So your 16-year-old isn't attending classes, and you're worried. We got your back, here’s how to handle it.

Talk Calmly

Don't jump to conclusions. Ask, "What's going on?" and really listen. Show empathy and avoid interrupting to make them feel heard. For example, a parent shared how asking their son about his day without judgment opened up a conversation about bullying.

Understand Their World

Teens juggle a lot—school, jobs, friends. They might feel overwhelmed. Acknowledge their stress and remind them it's okay to feel this way. One mom discovered her daughter was missing classes to help friends with their homework, feeling obligated to support them.

Set Clear Rules

Let them know school attendance is a must. Explain why it matters for their future, like getting into college or landing a good job. Share stories of successful individuals who emphasized the importance of education in achieving their dreams.

Offer Help

Ask if they're stressed. Offer to help with their schedule or school projects. For example, help them break down big assignments into smaller tasks. A dad helped his daughter create a weekly planner, which made managing her time easier.

Make a Plan Together

Work out a plan to improve attendance. Involve them in creating it so they feel responsible. Set small, achievable goals like attending all classes for a week. Use tools like a downloadable goal-setting worksheet to track progress together.

Check In Often

Regularly ask how school is going. Keep communication open. A simple, "How was school today?" shows you care without prying too much. Setting a consistent time each day for these check-ins can create routine and reliability.

Get Professional Help

If things don't improve, talk to a school counselor or therapist. They can offer strategies and support that you might not have thought of. Professional guidance can uncover hidden issues like anxiety or learning disabilities.

Balance Trust and Checking

Trust them but also verify by checking with teachers. Let them know you'll do this to build honesty and accountability. A real-life example: A parent agreed with their teen to check attendance weekly, which built trust and transparency.

Take Care of Yourself

Don't forget to look after your own well-being. Make time for activities you enjoy to manage your stress. Join a parent support group, either in person or online, to share experiences and get advice from others who understand.

Cultural Sensitivity

Remember that cultural differences can affect how teens and parents communicate. Adapt these tips to fit your cultural context. Respect and understand your teen’s cultural background when discussing school attendance.

Emergency Resources

In severe cases, don't hesitate to contact crisis hotlines or emergency counseling services. These can provide immediate support. Check out National Crisis Hotline for urgent help.

This post is inspired by Reddit user’s question jamie_q8

DISCLAIMER: Just a friendly heads-up—this isn’t professional advice! Our newsletter is purely educational and meant to help guide you through the maze of parenting teens and tweens. Every child is unique, so please consider your own circumstances and maybe chat with a professional if you need specific advice. Stay curious and keep learning!