Children’s Mental Health Week

Since 2015, Children’s Mental Health Week has happened every year to continue raising awareness of the importance of children’s mental health and wellbeing. 

At Explore Learning we know that healthy minds are an important part of learning, that’s why we fully support Children’s Mental Health Week. So let’s take a look at the significance of this week, the theme of Children’s Mental Health Week 2024 and why it matters.

The origin of Children’s Mental Health Week

Children’s Mental Health Week started back in 2015, when it was launched by Place2Be, marking the first celebration of its kind in the UK. Place2Be’s primary goal was to empower and give a voice to every child in the UK, recognising the need to address children’s mental health.

Since its establishment, Children’s Mental Health Week has evolved into a widely recognised national event, with hundreds of schools, colleges, parents and children participating.

Why is it Important?

Before 2015, there hasn’t been an event solely dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of children in the UK – while children’s mental health has been a topic that has been given a lot of attention over the years, Place2Be’s event took it a step further.

Throughout the week, schools, colleges and people across the UK come together to raise awareness, learn more about mental health of  children and take part in various activities designed to educate about children’s mental health.

Children’s Mental Health Week 2024 theme

This year, the Children’s Mental Health Week theme is “My Voice Matters”. 

This theme shines a light on the importance of every child’s voice needing to be heard. My Voice Matters highlights the necessity of empowering children to express their thoughts, feelings and concerns about their mental health openly. It encourages them to play a role in their own emotional wellbeing and aims to teach them to feel confident in seeking help when needed.

Encouraging children to speak about their mental health helps to reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges. In a time where bullying and cyberbullying facts tell us harsh truths, the importance of speaking up is vital. It’s crucial to acknowledge that children can experience stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges and My Voice Matters aims to educate all people that all children’s voices should be heard.

When is Children’s Mental Health Week 2024?

Children’s Mental Health Week 2024 occurs from February 5th to February 11th 2024. 

How can you get involved?

Children’s Mental Health Week provides various ways for everyone to get involved. Here are a few ways you can actively participate:

• Educate yourself: Start by learning more about children’s mental health and why all children’s voices matter. Understand why it’s important for children to be heard.

• Engage in conversations: Encourage open discussions about mental health with your children, friends and family. Create a safe space where children can express their feelings and any concerns they may have. 

• Support events: Throughout the week, many schools, colleges and businesses within the community will host events and mental health activities for kids. Attend or organise workshops related to children’s mental health week.

• Share resources: Sharing resources is an incredible way of spreading awareness. Share articles and information about children’s mental health and why all children’s voices matter. Another great way to share this is by encouraging your kids to read children’s books about mental health – this can get them interested and pave the way for open conversations.

• Volunteer: Considering volunteering at events dedicated to the week. Be it your children’s school or a business within the community, volunteering is a great way to contribute to the cause.

• Promote self-care and wellbeing strategies: Teach the importance of self-care for children. Consider sharing wellbeing tips for children that can help them actively improve their wellbeing.

Empowering children’s mental health

This year, Children’s Mental Health Week, is about understanding the importance of all children’s voices being heard. With activities, support and discussions, this week will empower children to navigate and understand their mental health, and not be afraid to speak up about it. 

At Explore Learning, we encourage all parents and children to participate in local events and spread awareness, so that all children can be heard. As we mark February 5th to February 11th on our calendars, let’s all remember that the change starts with us and every single one of us can make a difference!

Making a difference with our tuition

At Explore Learning we never underestimate the importance of children’s mental health and wellbeing when it comes to learning. That’s why our tutors put in the extra effort to really get to know your child, not just to understand how they learn, but to provide support when they really need it. 

If you want to learn more about how we support children and their mental health, get in touch. Or why not book in a free trial to see us in action?