In honor of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s dive into a topic that might seem a bit daunting but is oh-so-important – talking to young kids about mental health. As teachers, we’re not just guides through math problems and spelling tests; we’re also trusted adults in our students’ lives. And sometimes, those little ones need someone to help them make sense of big feelings.
We can play a big role in breaking stigmas associated with mental health. By normalizing talking about emotions, tough experiences, stress management, and more, we show students that we are a safe adult to come to with any problem. Mental health awareness month is a great time for a heavier focus on these topics, but they should be part of open dialogue in the classroom all year long!
10 Strategies for Mental Health Awareness in the Classroom
1. Keep it Simple
When it comes to talking about mental health with young kids, simplicity is key. Use language they can understand. For example, they may not grasp words like “anxiety” or “depression” but can start at a more simple level of “feeling really worried” or “feeling really sad.” You can build up to more complex mental health language in time! Remember that it’s important to talk about mental health all the time, not just during mental health awareness month!
2. Create a Safe Space
Before diving into the topic, make sure your classroom feels like a safe and supportive environment. Let kids know that it’s okay to talk about their feelings and that you’re there to listen without judgment. It’s important to teach students about empathy to create this space.
3. Use Books and Character Examples
Children’s books are a fantastic tool for talking about mental health in a way that’s relatable and non-threatening. Look for stories that feature characters dealing with emotions like sadness, anger, or anxiety. After reading, discuss the characters’ feelings and how they cope with them. Check out my list of Children’s Books for Mental Health Awareness Month!
4. Encourage Expression
Some kids might find it difficult to put their feelings into words. Encourage them to express themselves through art, music, or play. Provide plenty of opportunities for creative expression in the classroom.
5. Normalize Emotions - They aren't bad!
Let kids know that it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions and that everyone feels sad, angry, or scared sometimes. Emphasize that feelings come and go, and it’s okay to ask for help when they’re feeling overwhelmed.
6. Model Healthy Coping Strategies
As teachers, we’re role models for our students. Show them healthy ways to cope with stress and difficult emotions, like taking deep breaths, talking to a friend, or taking a break when needed. Model using self-talk by saying things like, “I am feeling frustrated by all of the talking going on while I am teaching. I am going to take a deep breath and then start over.”
7. Be Available and Approachable
Let kids know that you’re always available to talk if they’re feeling sad, worried, or upset. Create opportunities for one-on-one check-ins and make sure they know they can trust you with their feelings. Be aware when you’re out of your depth and need to refer the child elsewhere, like to a school counselor or social worker. You can still be a safe space for that student while also getting them further support!
8. Teach Coping Skills
In addition to modeling coping strategies, we can explicitly teach kids simple coping skills they can use when they’re feeling overwhelmed. This could include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization techniques. Notice times when students may need a break and use these as opportunities to practice coping skills. A calm down area in the classroom can be a great tool for this!
9. Encourage Help-Seeking Behaviors
Let kids know that it’s okay to ask for help when they need it. Teach them who they can turn to for support, whether it’s a teacher, parent, or school counselor. Teach “safe” adults and make sure each student is able to identify an adult in their life that is safe to talk to.
10. Celebrate Differences
Emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding towards others who may experience mental health challenges, just like they would i someone had physical health challenges. Encourage acceptance and celebrate the unique qualities that make each child special. Mental health awareness month is a great time to embrace neurodiversity!
Talking to young kids about mental health might seem like a big task, but with the right approach, it can be incredibly rewarding. By creating a safe and supportive environment, using age-appropriate language, and modeling healthy coping strategies, we can help our students build the resilience they need to navigate life’s ups and downs. So, let’s keep the conversation going beyond mental health awareness month and continue to be the caring and compassionate educators our kids deserve!
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