“She was absolutely fine once you left.” I heard that so many times. And every time, I wanted to believe it. But I’d pick her up and watch her unravel in the car on the way home. 🔸 Every single day. What I didn’t understand then - and what nobody told me - is that masking takes everything a child has. Holding it together all day at school, when your nervous system is in threat response, is exhausting in a way most adults can’t imagine. Home isn’t where she fell apart because she was being difficult. Home was the only place she felt safe enough to finally stop performing. If the school is telling you your child is fine - and your gut is telling you something different - trust your gut. You know your child. Save this if it helps. - Jules ❤️ #schoolrefusal #schoolanxiety #teenanxiety #ittakesavilliage