Truancy: a parents guide

You must make sure your child attends school on time every day. It's their right and your responsibility. The following advice will help:

• Good habits start early in life, so even before your child starts school, establish good routines, such as reading before bedtime and going to bed on time
• If your child is too ill to go to school, tell the school as soon as possible on the first day of absence. They will be concerned if they hear nothing
• If your child is off school, you must let the school know why and tell them when they can expect your child back at school
• Make all appointments for the doctor, dentist, optician etc after school hours or during the school holidays where possible
• If your child starts missing school, help the school to get your child back on track. Make sure that your child knows you don't approve of them missing school
• If you do want your child to miss school for a special occasion, you must apply for the school's authorisation well in advance of the date
• Take an active interest in your child's school work and offer support with homework
• Make sure that your child understands the benefits of regular attendance
• Don't let your child stay off school for a minor ailment
• Don't book holidays in term-time and don't expect the school's authorisation if you do.