Neurodiversity Newsletter – February 2025
In this issue:
- Barriers to School Attendance (formerly Emotional-Based School Avoidance)
- Support & advice websites for school attendance challenges
- Right to Choose – guidance on school and care options
- Inspire Youth – holiday activities for young people
- Meet Your Care Coordinators – Wendy (Children & Young People’s Neurodiversity) and Montana (Learning Disabilities)
What is Barriers to School Attendance?
This term describes difficulty attending school due to emotional distress, leading to frequent absences or complete non-attendance. It can manifest as anxiety, physical symptoms (stomach pain, dizziness), or emotional distress.
Common Causes:
- Anxiety about friendships, fitting in, or academic pressure
- Personal challenges such as bereavement, illness, or caregiving responsibilities
- Neurodiverse conditions (Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia) making school overwhelming
- Lack of suitable support or adjustments in the school environment
Support & Advice
If your child is struggling, it’s essential to work closely with the school to develop a support plan. These websites offer helpful guidance:
- The Go-To: School Attendance Support
- Young Minds: School Anxiety Advice
- Define Fine – Parent-Led Support
- BBC Bitesize: Coping with School Anxiety