In today’s world, mental health and behavioral disorders impact a significant number of children. According to data from the CDC, approximately 1 in 7 children aged 2 to 8 has been diagnosed with a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder (MBDD). This statistic only accounts for those who have received formal diagnoses, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action.
MBDDs are particularly common among boys, non-Hispanic white children, those aged 6 to 8, and children from impoverished backgrounds. However, they can affect any child, which underscores the collective responsibility to address this pressing issue by providing children with the necessary resources, support, coping strategies, and care.
You might expect schools—where children spend a substantial part of their day—to prioritize these matters. While many educators are dedicated and strive to care for their students as if they were their own, the question remains: Are schools doing enough to focus on the socio-emotional well-being of their students? Why isn’t mental health integrated into the curriculum alongside subjects like math and reading? Teaching kids to be compassionate and cooperative members of society should hold equal importance.
Enter Emily Thompson, a kindergarten teacher at Maplewood Elementary School in Springfield, Illinois, who has been advocating for mental health awareness for years. In a recent impactful Facebook post, she expressed her desire for her students to “thrive not just academically, but as individuals,” detailing her approach to nurturing their mental well-being alongside their educational accomplishments.
Thompson’s commitment to her students is truly inspiring. She recently shared her concerns about the state of school safety and the discourse surrounding it, voicing a desire to move the conversation beyond blame. “I am not here to engage in debates,” Thompson stated. “I believe we should focus on actionable conversations about mental health.”
She believes that as an educator, she plays a crucial role in shaping children’s lives. “I am their first step out of the home,” she notes. “I can create an inviting school environment and show them that learning can be enjoyable.” Each morning, she greets her students with warmth and affection, recognizing that her hugs may be the only comfort they receive all day. She also provides extra snacks to hungry students and offers clothes and shoes to those in need.
These small gestures can have a profound impact on children’s lives and are equally vital as teaching them core academic skills. Thompson reflects on her experiences with students who have faced abuse, neglect, and significant family challenges, noting that many of her students now deal with heightened anxiety, necessitating weekly counseling.
However, Thompson asserts that merely providing love and support is not sufficient; educational institutions must implement programs targeting mental health. Recognizing a gap in such offerings, she took the initiative to create change within her school. Last year, she successfully secured a grant to launch an after-school yoga and mindfulness program, which attracted over 100 participants.
Eager to expand her efforts, Thompson aims to spearhead a movement prioritizing mental health education in schools. “Self-management, growth mindset, social awareness, respect, and responsibility need to be part of our curriculum,” she declares, lamenting that these subjects often take a backseat due to budget constraints.
To support this cause, she compiled a mental health reading list aimed at young children, which she shared on her Facebook page through an Amazon Wish List. The list covers essential topics such as divorce, grief, and fostering friendships, all of which are critical issues that require open discussion.
Thompson’s wish list has not only been fulfilled for her school, but it has also been widely shared, allowing numerous other schools to benefit from these resources. “It feels great to know that others are using my list to begin their own initiatives,” she shared. “I have received feedback from educators and parents eager to support their kids through this movement.”
In a world that desperately needs more compassionate educators like Thompson, her efforts illuminate the importance of mental and emotional health for children. It’s heartening to witness dedicated individuals taking charge of such vital issues and ensuring they are prioritized in educational settings.
For those interested in further exploring mental health resources, consider checking out this article on overcoming anxiety or the ACOG website for comprehensive information on related topics. Also, if you want to delve into family planning, visit this blog post about home insemination kits.
Summary
Emily Thompson, a dedicated teacher, has initiated a movement for mental health awareness in schools. By addressing the socio-emotional needs of her students and advocating for mental health education, she aims to transform the educational landscape for the better. Her efforts include launching a yoga program and creating a mental health reading list, which has gained traction in various schools. Thompson’s work underscores the importance of nurturing children’s emotional well-being alongside academic success.