37. School Refusal vs. School Phobia: What Every Parent Needs to Know

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Trust Me Mom,I sit down with Dr. Elena Merenova, a school psychologist with over 20 years of experience, to unpack a topic many parents quietly struggle with — why kids refuse to go to school.Is it just a phase? A hidden problem? Or something moreserious like school phobia?Dr. Merenova shares real-life stories, practical strategies,and deeply insightful advice to help parents understand, support, and empower their children.00:00 Introduction & Meet Dr. Elena Merenova02:00 What is school refusal vs school phobia?03:30 Real-life example: When a small issue becomes a big problem06:50 How rare is true school phobia?08:30 Who should be involved in helping a child?11:20 Case study: Severe school phobia and recovery journey18:30 Why small steps and celebrating wins matter21:00 Peer influence vs parental influence (age 12+)25:30 What to do if your child has “bad influences”28:00 Mild school refusal: boredom, stress, and lack of motivation30:20 What if your child is bored at school?32:40 Social struggles and isolation at school34:40 Teaching kids that “boring is part of life”37:20 How parents shape mindset and resilience39:40 When boredom becomes something more serious41:40 Depression in children: signs, causes, and treatment46:20 Parenting by example: what kids really learn48:50 Key advice for parents dealing with school refusal50:50 Why forcing kids (even calling police) is NOT the solution51:10 Learning disabilities and confidence issues53:30 How to build confidence in your child55:50 Finding what your child is good at57:00 What if your child is depressed?58:10 Parenting reflections: what to do differently01:00:30 How to build trust with your child #ParentingTips #SchoolRefusal #SchoolPhobia #ChildPsychology#ParentingAdvice #MentalHealthKids #ConfidenceInKids #TrustMeMom#ParentingPodcast #ChildDevelopment #AnxietyInChildren #RaisingKids #MomLife#ParentingSupport #EducationMatters