Parenting expert Abi Clarke

A parenting coach says 'good attendance' awards should be abolished and parents should never force their kids to go to school - because both can lead to 'severe burnout'. Abi Clarke, 34, reckons primary children should be able to take 'mental health days' too.

She fears encouraging children to attend, even if they feel unwell or are struggling mentally, can be detrimental. Abi says parents should never tell their child they have to go to school if they are clearly struggling.

She feels that awards for good attendance should be abolished too. Mum-of-two Abi feels it encourages children to ignore their physical and mental health needs - and rewards them when they do.

Abi argues this is more of a punishment - and can lead to severe burnout in children as youn

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