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My child is reluctant to go to boarding school, what to do?

Dr S Anandalakshmy
Advisor on Child Development & Education,
Chennai

Q: My daughter, who is 7 yrs old, is at present studying in a boarding school but is reluctant to stay there. Will she have any psychological problems if I continue to put her in a boarding school?

A:I am not clear why a 7 year old should be sent to a boarding school, unless there are some reasons, like the parents not being available to her or some serious prolonged illness of the mother. If the child does not like to go to the boarding school, you should find out WHY. Possibly the care givers there are harsh. Perhaps she could go after she is ten years old and wishes to take advantage of the good education there. Forcing her to go to the hostel can lead to problems of anxiety and disturbed behaviour. However, it all depends on the choices that you have. The childs happiness and well being should receive top priority.