#1044 - Q&A: Tearaway Toddlers & Staying in School
Jul 29, 2024
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Bec, a Sydney parent, shares her struggles with her adventurous 2-year-old who constantly darts toward danger. Dr. Justin provides vital tips for keeping energetic toddlers safe while allowing them to explore. Meanwhile, Karen from Brisbane discusses her child's school refusal. Dr. Justin emphasizes the importance of open dialogue with both the child and the school. He outlines strategies to boost engagement and confidence, helping parents tackle the challenges of both early childhood and school attendance.
To ensure the safety of curious toddlers, parents must use proactive measures like holding hands and providing clear explanations of dangers.
Addressing school refusal requires ongoing communication with the child and school, focusing on emotional needs and connecting education to their aspirations.
Deep dives
Managing Toddlers Near Roads
Toddlers are naturally curious and often unaware of dangers, such as running towards roads. Parents can feel pressured when their child runs off, especially in public places without adequate fencing. Continued communication about safety is essential, emphasizing the importance of explaining potential dangers repeatedly, as the learning process takes time. Parents should adopt proactive measures, such as holding hands, choosing safe locations for outings, and sometimes avoiding risky situations altogether.
Addressing School Refusal in Teenagers
School refusal or avoidance can become a significant issue for teenagers, especially when they miss classes frequently. Engaging with the school and understanding the specific challenges the child faces can provide insight and help improve attendance. Listening to the child about their feelings towards school could reveal underlying issues related to relationships, competence, or autonomy. Ultimately, emphasizing the value of education while connecting it to the child's future goals may encourage consistent attendance and engagement.
Balancing Mental Health Days and Attendance
While mental health days can provide necessary breaks for students, excessive time off can lead to increased feelings of inadequacy and disengagement from schooling. Understanding the context of a child's request for time off is crucial, especially in determining if it's a healthy response or avoidance. Ensuring children recognize the value of completing their education is important, as high school completion correlates with better long-term outcomes. Conversations about education should include discussions about the child's aspirations and how attending school contributes to achieving those goals.
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Navigating Toddler Safety and Emotional Challenges
Bec, from Sydney, has a 2-year-old who keeps running towards the road when out at parks, playgrounds, and shops. Running away is developmentally normal: little kids love to explore. But it's also very scary! There are four things parents can do to keep their "runner" safe when out and about.
Karen, from Brisbane, asks how to navigate the ongoing challenge of school refusal. Ongoing conversations with both child and school are important when school attendance is a challenge. Dr Justin shares some questions to ask, and four ideas to increase engagement, competence, and confidence for your struggling student.