Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week will take place from 5th to 11th February 2024, with the theme of My Voice Matters. It was set up by children’s mental health charity Place2Be and shines a spotlight on the importance of children and young people’s mental health.

So, how can you actively foster positive mental health within your school? Here are five simple ideas for primary school teachers to promote good mental health in their pupils:

1. Mindfulness Activities:

Introduce short and age-appropriate mindfulness activities in the classroom. Teach children simple breathing exercises, guided meditation, or mindful listening exercises. These activities can help students develop a sense of calm and focus, reducing stress and anxiety.

2. Emotion Check-ins:

Create a daily routine where students have a moment to check in with their emotions. This could be done through a simple “emotion chart” where students place a marker on how they’re feeling that morning. Teachers can then address any concerns privately or encourage the class to discuss and support each other.

3. Gratitude Journaling:

Implement a gratitude journaling practice in the classroom. Provide students with notebooks where they can write or draw something they are thankful for each day. This fosters a positive mindset, encourages reflection, and helps students appreciate the good things in their lives.

4. Collaborative Activities:

Foster a sense of community and teamwork through collaborative activities. Group work or class initiatives that require cooperation and communication can help build positive relationships among students. This sense of belonging contributes to a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

5. Physical Activity Breaks:

Incorporate short physical activity breaks into the daily schedule. Simple exercises, stretching, or dance routines can help release pent-up energy, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. These breaks also contribute to better focus and concentration during lessons.

– Phoebe (Creative Development Officer)