There is a lot of uncertainty in the world at the moment, but providing a safe space to have a conversation can help them open up.
1 in 6 children aged 5-16 likely to have a mental health problem, and in the last three years, the likelihood of young people having a mental health problem has increased by 50%. Now, five children in a classroom of 30 are likely to have a mental health problem.
Physical exercise has been proven to reduce depression, lower stress and anxiety levels, lift moods, increase energy levels, boost concentration, improve sleep and increase your self-esteem and confidence. Whether it is going for a brisk walk, running for 15 minutes, or doing some light yoga as a family, positive movement is crucial in helping everyone achieve a positive mental wellbeing.
For younger children play can be a great way to help them talk about their worries, or give them a good distraction when they’re upset. Active play is a great way for parents/carers to learn and understand the way their child is feeling, whilst also boosting their activity levels, energy levels and lifting their mood.
153 schools across Essex signed up to the Walk and Talk event last year. It provided a chance for children to get outdoors and speak to each other.
Essex Walk & Talk – Children Mental Health Week
As part of Children’s Mental Health Week taking place from 5th – 11th February 2024, Active Essex are encouraging schools to Go outside, Get Active and Talk. Between this week, we are asking schools to complete a walk whilst talking to fellow students through our conversation topic cards. This day is a great way to make students feel calmer, reenergised and increase their concentration levels by getting fresh air, taking part in physical activity and talking. All schools who participate will be sent an Active Essex Toolkit including a Step by Step Guide to host your walk, 10 conversation topic cards and posters and values for your children to create. To take part in the Walk & Talk Wellbeing Day and to receive an Active Essex Toolkit, please confirm by submit a form by Friday 2nd February.
