Seven million school days were missed in Victoria last year. Is this a sign of a growing problem, or are parents finally putting their families first?

A new report has sparked fierce debate about school attendance. Should children ever miss school for a holiday, a family celebration or a mental health break?

Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack what the numbers actually tell us, why so many families are choosing term-time travel, and whether chasing perfect attendance comes at a cost.

They explore what children gain from school, what they gain from time with family, and why the best decision isn't always the obvious one.

If you've ever wondered whether it's okay to pull your child out of school, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.

KEY POINTS

• What the seven million missed school days really represent.
• Why more families are travelling during school term.
• The pressure schools place on perfect attendance.
• How COVID changed the way many parents think about school.
• What children can learn outside the classroom.
• When missing school can be the right choice.
• Why every family needs to weigh the trade-offs for themselves.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

"If you need to have some time off, if you want to take the kids out of school, do it."

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Herald Sun report on Victorian school attendance.
• Happy Families resources at happyfamilies.com.au.

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Make school attendance your starting point, not an unbreakable rule.
• Before taking your child out of school, ask what they'll gain from the experience.
• Talk with your child's teacher if they'll miss important learning.
• Don't let guilt make the decision for you. Consider your child's learning, your family's circumstances and what matters most.