One thing that's always dawned on me is how shocking it must be for the parents of muggleborns to receive news of the magical world. And as if coming to terms with the existence of an entire magical world isn't difficult enough already, they're then expected to entrust the safety of their children to a bunch of complete strangers in a world that they not only have no understanding of, but have also just been introduced to.

Oh, and let's not forget the cherry on top: once your child leaves, you're expected to keep the whole thing a secret. Don't tell your friends, your neighbors, or anyone else - because the magical world doesn't exist as far as the rest of society is concerned.

Given how difficult it must be for the parents of muggle-born students to come to terms with this reality, I'd be willing to bet that there has been more than one instance of parents REFUSING (at least, initially) to send their child to the school. After all, what GOOD parent wouldn't worry about sending their child off to an unfamiliar, hidden world filled with unknown dangers and rules they don't understand? 

I know my mum would take issue...At least, until she learns a bit more about it.

Therefore, today I want to discuss the topic of parents REFUSING to send their children to Hogwarts: unpacking whether it's possible to actually refuse, and if they do, taking a look at the what the future might hold for their magical child.

Let's dive in to it.