A child who doesn’t want to go to school is a common theme in comedies, but there’s nothing funny about some of the reasons your child might not want to attend classes. A desire to stay home can be attributed to many possible issues. Here are ten of the most common reasons children avoid school.

1. Change in Routine

Children thrive in structured environments, and sometimes even the smallest change in routine can cause anxiety. A parent going away on a business trip or a friend moving away can leave a child feeling anxious and adrift, and unable to focus in school. Routines give children a sense of security and stability. Preparing them for upcoming changes can ease the transition and give them the confidence they need to stay on track.

2. Loss of a Loved One

The death of a loved one is a traumatic experience for anyone of any age, but it can be particularly difficult for children to process. Everyone’s experience of grief is different. A child may be anxious, scared, angry, or depressed. Allowing children to share their feelings and ask questions can ease the healing process and help them return to school.

3. Depression

Depression is a debilitating illness that can bring on extreme fatigue, fear, or an inability to concentrate. All of these can have a serious impact on schoolwork and can lead to more frequent or even extended absences. The longer a youth is absent, the more anxious they may become about going back to school because they feel they will never be able to catch up.

4. Anxiety

Mental health issues play a big part in school absenteeism. A student may be anxious about starting a new grade, taking a test, or an upcoming performance. Allowing them to express those concerns in a safe environment can act as a release for that tension, enabling them to tackle their fears and become stronger as a result.

5. Being Bullied (or Bullying)

Bullying can take many forms, and its emotional impact cannot be overstated. Victims of bullies may feel isolated, scared, and alone; the bullies themselves may have unresolved emotional issues they don’t have the tools to process. Work with school administrators to identify the root causes of your child’s bullying experience and determine how to best address them.

6. Friendship Drama

Friends are one of life’s most important assets. Odd as it may seem, some children will do anything to preserve those bonds, even if the relationship is unpleasant or unhealthy. Friendship drama can take on many forms and sometimes even mirror bullying behavior. A child may suddenly avoid certain friends or situations (including school) to avoid dealing with the drama.

7. Academic Struggles

A new school, a new grade, or difficult coursework can lead to stress. If your child suddenly no longer wants to attend school, avoids discussing assignments, complains of boredom, or becomes angry when asked about schoolwork, they might be struggling academically. Recognizing this early and getting them the help they need is crucial so they don’t fall further behind.

8. Substance Abuse

Substance abuse can interfere with schooling by making a child lethargic, paranoid, or unable to perform academically. A change in a child’s peer group, a drop in grades, or a sudden loss of interest in favorite activities can indicate experimentation with drugs or alcohol. Talk to your child about substance abuse, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a school counselor or healthcare provider for guidance.

9. Peer Pressure

Skipping school can be a form of defiance or the result of peer pressure — friends encouraging them to skip classes. Some kids won’t even get up for school; others might attend but skip out later in the day. Even good students may give in when pressured by friends to do something “adventurous.” Open communication and clear expectations can help counteract peer influence.

10. Late-Night Technology Use

Technology use is an issue many parents and counselors are taking more seriously. Whether it’s online gaming, texting, or social media, studies show that technology can become psychologically addictive. Excessive use can lead to sleep deprivation, exposure to inappropriate content, or cyberbullying. Most importantly, too much time online can take away from developing crucial social and emotional skills.