Hi there,

Thanks for contacting Ask Robyn with your question. It’s completely understandable to feel concerned when your child suddenly expresses a dislike for school. Many children go through phases where school feels boring or overwhelming, but these feelings may signal a deeper issue that’s worth gently exploring.

Here are a few steps that you can take to help understand what might really be going on:

Open and calm conversations

Try asking your child open-ended, non-judgemental questions like:

• “What part of school feels boring to you?”
• “Is there something at school that you wish was different?”
• “Did something happen recently that made you feel upset or uncomfortable?”
• “It sounds like school isn’t fun right now—what do you think would help?”

Pick a relaxed time, such as during a walk or while doing an activity together, so the conversation feels natural and not pressured.

Look for patterns or changes

Consider if there have been any recent changes—such as a new teacher, friendship issues, difficulty with schoolwork, or changes at home. Is your child more reluctant to attend school on certain days, for example when there’s swimming or a test? Children don’t always have the language to express stress or anxiety directly, so changes in behaviour can be an important clue.

Talk with the teacher

Reaching out to your child’s teacher can provide helpful insight. Teachers may observe changes in behaviour, academic struggles, or social difficulties that may not be obvious at home. They can also suggest practical support strategies and collaborate with you to help your child feel more comfortable at school.

Highlight school positives

On a day your child attends school, ask questions like:

• “What made you smile today?”
• “Did you learn anything interesting?”
• “Did you get to play with something new?”

Celebrate small wins. This helps shift your child’s focus from the negatives to more positive experiences and reinforces their resilience.

Validate and reassure

Let your child know it’s okay to feel how they do, and that you’re there to support them. You might even share a story about a time when you didn’t feel like going to school. Even if school attendance isn’t optional, feeling heard and understood can ease your child’s anxiety and strengthen your relationship.

Seek further support

If this behaviour continues, and you’d like more guidance, the ISPCC (Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) offers support services for both children and parents dealing with emotional or behavioural challenges.

You can contact their Parenting Support service by emailing [email protected] or by calling the Support Line on 01 522 4300, Monday to Friday, 9.00am–1.00pm.

Take care,

Robyn