Children with “sore throats and runny noses” are better off at school than at home, Chris Whitty warns, because going home only makes them more anxious

Parents should send their children to school with mild respiratory illnesses, said Sir Chris Whitty.

The chief medical officer wrote that children do better in the classroom even if they have physical or mental health problems.

In a letter released by the Department of Education to school leaders, Mr Whitty said staying at home would only make the situation of anxious children worse.

It was also recognized that the Covid pandemic has left parents less confident in deciding whether their children are suitable to attend school.

The letter was signed by several other leading medical experts, including Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, and Pat Cullen, Secretary General of the Royal College of Nurses.

Children do better in the classroom even if they have minor illnesses or mental health problems, says Sir Chris Whitty

A letter signed by several leading health experts said having children at home could actually increase their anxiety

According to the Times, the signers included Dr. Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

dr Smith said that “mild to moderate anxiety” is a normal part of growing up and that going to school can help address such issues.

She added that keeping a child away from school is more likely to be afraid to go back to school.

The letter said teachers should advise parents that going to school improves socialization, health and well-being.