Jasper is jittery, queasy, and panicky. Must be time for school!
For weeks, he has fussed, moaned, and sometimes even refused to go to
class. He has outbursts each morning, tells Mom and Dad he's sick, and
hides in his room. He uses any and every reason he can muster to stay at
home, but then spends hours playing video games and watching his
favorite reptile shows.
The longer Jasper stays out of school, the more anxious he gets about
going back. His homework is piling up, and his parents are
increasingly concerned and frustrated. They insist he go to school, and
Jasper promises he will tomorrow. It's always tomorrow. But when morning
comes, he sobs and says he has to stay home for just one more day.
Missing school also means missing football practice, so Jasper isn't
allowed to play in the big game. When the team loses, he wonders if he
is to blame? Everyone wants an answer for why Jasper keeps skipping
out on school.
- Is there a bully on the bus? Is school scary?
- Is homework too hard? Is he really sick?
- Is it a cry for attention?
With playful rhymes and colorful characters, author Ashley Bartley
explores why sometimes young kids refuse to go to school and what can
give them the confidence to try school again. A special page written
specifically for parents and teachers offers insightful and practical
tips on helping children who suffer from separation anxiety and
school-related stress.
Jasper Wants to Stay Home is the fourth title in the Diamond, Opal
and Friends series. Written for students in grades PreK-5, these
popular stories are used by educators and parents to teach children
self-care, self-control, and self-determination. The series includes
Diamond Rattle Loves to Tattle, Opal Octopus Is Overwhelmed, and
Remi in Overdrive.
