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Navigating the decision to keep middle or high school-aged children home from school when they’re not feeling well can be a challenging task for many parents, reveals a recent national poll.
The survey, conducted by the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, sheds light on the factors parents consider when deciding whether their adolescent or teen should stay home due to illness or other concerns.
According to the poll, which gathered responses from 1,300 parents of children ages 11 to 18 in February 2024, parents weigh various factors when making these decisions. Among the top considerations are the severity of the child’s symptoms, concerns about contagion, and the potential impact on academic obligations such as tests, presentations, or extracurricular activities.
Sarah Clark, M.P.H., co-director of the Mott Poll, emphasizes that while some situations may warrant a clear decision, such as vomiting or a high fever, many parents find themselves grappling with uncertainty when their child reports not feeling well.
The poll reveals that more than half of parents err on the side of caution, opting to keep their child home if there’s any doubt about their well-being. However, a significant portion of parents would send their child to school and hope for the best, while a smaller percentage would let the child make the decision.
Academic concerns also weigh heavily on parents’ minds, particularly as children progress through junior and senior high school. Worries about grades, friendships, and missing out on school activities often influence parents’ decisions regarding sick days.
To better understand their child’s request to stay home, Clark recommends parents ask probing questions, especially if the absence coincides with important academic events.
The poll also highlights a growing recognition of mental health concerns among children, with 19% of parents expressing openness to allowing a child to take a mental health day. Clark emphasizes the importance of helping children navigate social stressors and build resilience, even in uncomfortable situations.
While most parents recognize the importance of school attendance policies, many acknowledge the challenges they pose for children with chronic medical conditions. These families may need to work with school administrators and healthcare providers to ensure flexibility in completing assignments and making up missed schoolwork.
Overall, the poll underscores the complex considerations parents face when deciding whether to keep their teens home from school and the importance of open communication with both children and school officials in navigating these decisions.
