End 'Good Attendance' Awards, Urges Parenting Expert

A parenting coach has ignited discussion by proposing the discontinuation of 'good attendance' awards in primary schools, asserting that children should be granted 'mental health days' akin to adults. She contends that compelling attendance when a child is unwell or facing emotional distress can inflict lasting harm and potentially trigger burnout.

This expert highlights that current practices, which reward perfect attendance, inadvertently encourage children to disregard their well-being. Warning signs of burnout in young children, such as apathy and meltdowns, are often overlooked. She believes parents should trust their children's needs and allow for necessary breaks.

The coach suggests that allowing one authorized mental health day per term could help children experiencing emotion-based school avoidance without system exploitation. She counters concerns about hindering resilience, suggesting it can be fostered through gentler methods, emphasizing that children are human beings with feelings deserving of consideration.