September is Attendance Awareness Month

It’s hard to believe that it’s already September! This September, let’s look at good school attendance habits to celebrate Attendance Awareness Month.

Why does attendance matter?

Good attendance–and avoiding chronic absence–is important for so many reasons.

According to Attendance Works, over 8 million kids were missing enough school to be considered at risk academically. Chronic absence is when a child is missing 10% or more of school days each year. That includes excused and unexcused absences. The problem with chronic absence is that it means a student can have a harder time learning to read by the third grade level, an important milestone for young readers, success in middle school, and even graduating from high school.

Thankfully, you can take action today to prepare your child for future success through good attendance habits:

  • Make every school day an adventure by talking, singing, and having fun when discussing school with your child

  • Keep to a schedule that includes a regular bedtime routine. (Look at last week’s blog for more ideas on routine building!)

  • Start the school day right with a predictable morning routine

  • Prep the day before by laying out clothes, packing bags and making lunches ahead of time

  • Make fun songs and stories about getting ready for school, eating breakfast, and heading to class

  • Talk to other parents about their routines and how they prioritize good attendance habits

  • Ask teachers and other school resources about questions you have regarding COVID-19 or any other concerns you may have

Setting up good attendance habits when your child is young can be a fun and healthy way to practice important tools that your child can use as they continue to climb grades at school. Have a happy start to the school year with your child while practicing good attendance!

Preschoolers, School AgeMatt Whitman