Can an understanding of the young brain guide our interactions with a student who is absent from school? Yes, absolutely.
The reason is that behaviors, thoughts, and feelings do not arise in a vacuum—and neither does school absence. The young brain’s biological programming drives various behaviors, and gaining insight into these processes makes the situation easier to comprehend.
In this book, Lena Skogholm combines research on school absence with practical experience and knowledge of the young brain. It is written for anyone who encounters students with school absence, whether in a professional capacity or as a family member. Readers gain insight into how the young brain functions and learn practical ways to work with—rather than against—its ancient biological programming. This provides a reliable foundation—a lifeline to hold onto while navigating the complex maze that school absence can become. The book also offers guidance on collaborating with parents, highlights the opportunities and challenges involved in addressing school absence, and identifies eight common “thinking traps” that even wise people can fall into when faced with such complex situations. With its accessible, pedagogical approach, the book is easy to grasp while remaining firmly grounded in scientific research.
