Respond when childcare disrupts class attendance

Childcare disruption can quickly become an attendance and coursework problem. A retention advisor should acknowledge the strain without assuming what a course can excuse or what aid a student may receive. The immediate task is to understand timing, protect the student's privacy, and connect the student to the appropriate academic and support offices.

Keisha says, "My daycare closed for two weeks, and I missed class. Can you tell my professor it is excused and get me emergency money?" Advisor Paul replies, "I am sorry this is putting so much pressure on you. Which classes have deadlines in the next few days, and have you been able to contact your instructors?" Keisha says a presentation is due tomorrow. Paul continues, "Instructors decide course attendance and assignment questions, so I cannot excuse the absence. The basic needs office can explain any support programs and their eligibility. Let us write a short message to your instructor about the presentation and find the basic needs appointment line. Would you prefer to contact the instructor now or after we locate the support office?" Keisha chooses to send the message while they are on the call.

Paul helps Keisha choose the immediate next step. Keisha can explain her circumstance to the person who manages the course and learn about available support from the office that evaluates it. The advisor shares only the information needed for those connections.

Practice with a student whose care arrangement changes suddenly. Ask about the nearest academic deadline before asking for details about the family situation. Review whether your response identifies course authority and support eligibility without predicting either outcome.