A significant new study has uncovered that British parents are permitting their children to take an average of six days off school each year specifically for their mental wellbeing.
The Parental Perspective on Mental Health
The comprehensive survey of 2,000 mothers and fathers revealed that an overwhelming 90% believe their child's mental health takes precedence over school attendance. This shifting attitude reflects growing concerns about young people's psychological wellbeing in the post-pandemic era.
Among those surveyed, 75% acknowledged giving their children what many term 'duvet days' for mental health reasons. The research found that nearly half of parents (49%) regularly allow time off when their child appears too distressed to attend school, while a further 26% have done so on one or two occasions.
Broader Educational Context and Consequences
These findings emerge against a backdrop of what experts describe as an attendance crisis within UK schools. Recent reports indicate that absence and suspension rates remain two-thirds higher than pre-pandemic levels, creating significant challenges for educational institutions.
Many educators have pointed to the lasting impact of lockdowns, noting that some pupils never fully regained their confidence after extended periods without normal social interaction. The closure of schools during the pandemic continues to cast a long shadow over student engagement and attendance patterns.
Interestingly, 70% of parents reported observing noticeable improvements in their child's happiness and behaviour when allowed regular breaks from the school environment. This suggests that strategic time away from educational settings may benefit some children's overall wellbeing.
Changing Attitudes and Future Directions
The research, commissioned by Bett and conducted by Perspectus Global, surveyed equal numbers of primary and secondary school parents (1,000 each). It revealed evolving parental attitudes toward school absence, with 32% admitting they've become more relaxed about missed school days compared to pre-pandemic times.
Many parents reported that the normalization of working from home has made managing children's time off more manageable. The study also found that 22% believe occasional school absence has no long-term consequences for their child's development.
When asked about potential solutions to improve attendance, parents suggested several approaches:
- 55% advocated for more personalised learning experiences
- 46% supported increased use of game-based learning
- 32% called for fewer rules and regulations
- 31% favoured hybrid teaching models combining school and home learning
Duncan Verry, portfolio director of Bett, commented: "The research paints a picture of parents who care deeply about their children's wellbeing, sometimes prioritising mental health over perfect attendance records. This shift requires us to think differently about how we approach school engagement."
He added: "The challenge is not simply about returning to pre-pandemic norms but about creating educational environments where all children want to be."
The findings arrive as the Government prepares to implement artificial intelligence systems next year to establish minimum attendance targets, representing part of a broader crackdown on school absence.
