1. Set attendance goals and track progress on a calendar.

2. Help your child get a good night's sleep (most younger children need 10-12 hours per night and adolescents 13-18 years of age need 8-10 hours per night).

3. Prep the night before to streamline your morning (have the child lay out their clothes before going to bed, have backpacks and lunches packed, develop back up plans for getting to school in case something comes up).

4. Schedule extended trips during school breaks.

5. Stay up to date on routine well child and dental visits. Regular connections with your pediatrician and dental provider helps catch any health issues early.

6. Look for school activities that match your child's interest. (special activities like this can help kids connect with school and keep them motivated to attend).

7. Do not keep your child home unless they are truly sick. Reasons to keep your child home from school include:

Fever of 100.4 or greater,, continuous or severe productive cough, red eyes with drainage, vomiting, diarrhea or any known infectious disease, unidentified rash or skin irritation.

8. If your child has a chronic health issue such as allergies, asthma or seizures, work with your pediatrician and school nurse to develop a school action plan.

9. Talk with your child about the reasons why they do not want to go to school (school related anxiety can lead to school avoidance). If you are concerned about your child's mental health, talk with your pediatrician, your child's teacher or the school counselor.

10. Follow the rules. (know your school's requirements for when your child will be absent or late).