How often does your child resist going to school?

[Anonymous]

My 4 year old had a period of significant school refusal (preschool, which is also our only form of child care) in the past but I really thought we were beyond that. He has said things like I don’t want to go since but has not generally really refused. He went back ok after the break and we were so relieved. But this morning he didn’t want to go and really fought it in a way he hasn’t in a while. We had some disruption to our routine this morning but I was really surprised it got so bad. Do your kids just refuse/really fight going to school sometimes? My oldest never did this but we both worked outside the house so I think it was a bit easier to understand/ now he thinks I’m just at home and there is no reason he can’t be home too.

[Anonymous]

Do you follow dr Becky on Instagram? Her handle is drbeckyatgoodinside - she is a behavioral psychologist with young kids and just did a post on school resistance this morning.

To answer your question, my 4yo is currently very good about it but we def have issues getting out the door sometimes. And last year, his first year of nursery, many days were hard. In fact, until recently I’d have trouble at pick up (in addition to drop off last year.) we have friends who’s 4yos also are sad going to school and I’ve personally seen tantrums happen at drop off.