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.
Children’s Mental Health Week (3rd-9th February 2025)
As part of Children’s Mental Health Week, the Active Essex Foundation are providing free conversation topic cards to get your pupils walking & talking. During this week, we are encouraging Primary & Secondary schools to complete a Walk & Talk session through our 10 topic conversation cards.
To take part in the and receive your Mental Health Topic Cards, please email [email protected]
Please be sure to tag our social media pages so we can see you taking part to be in the chance to receive a prize!
Facebook: @ActiveEssex
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Instagram: @findyouractive
