News

 
In today's fast-paced world, it is crucial to prioritise and celebrate the wellbeing of our youngest generation. As we strive to create a nurturing environment for our pupils at Jacques Prévert, it is essential to recognise and celebrate their mental health. Mental wellbeing is as vital as physical health, and fostering a positive mindset from an early age can contribute to a lifetime of happiness and success. This week, we aim to shed light on the importance of children's mental health and the ways in which we are planning to celebrate and support it in our school community.

This year’s theme is “My Voice Matters” and the week was launched during an assembly on Monday 5^th February, where the pupils from CE1 to CM2 had the opportunity to understand what mental health means in more detail, to engage in mindful breathing exercises, and learnt how they can maintain or improve their mental wellbeing.

Children, just like adults, experience a range of emotions, and it is important to acknowledge and address our mental health needs. Factors such as school pressures, social interactions, and family dynamics can influence a child's emotional wellbeing. By fostering a supportive environment, we can help children develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and coping mechanisms that will serve them well in the future.

On Tuesday, 6th February, in honour of Safer Internet Day, pupils in CM1 and CM2 actively participated in a meaningful assembly. The session provided them with essential information on how to enjoy the Internet while being mindful of potential risks and dangers. Furthermore, the assembly aimed to cultivate their critical thinking skills in the online realm. In the evening, parents and carers were invited to participate in a compelling virtual session on Online Safety. The session proved to be engaging and enlightening, offering valuable insights into fostering a secure online environment for children.

This week, the key messages while we celebrate Children's Mental Health will be the following:

Promoting Open Communication: We encourage children to express their thoughts and feelings openly and this is the first step in supporting their mental health. Teachers and parents aim at creating an atmosphere where children feel comfortable sharing their emotions without fear of judgment. Simple activities like circle time or journaling can provide safe spaces for self-expression.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness activities into the daily routine can have a positive impact on children's mental health. Simple practices, such as deep breathing exercises or short guided meditations, can help children manage stress and enhance their ability to focus.

Building Positive Relationships: Forming strong connections with teachers, classmates, and family members contributes significantly to a child's mental wellbeing. By nurturing positive relationships, we create a support network that helps children navigate challenges more effectively.

Celebratory Events: On Friday 9th February, we will be celebrating Express Yourself Day as part of our commitment to Children's Mental Health Week. Express Yourself Day is a chance for students and staff alike to showcase their individuality and creativity through various expressive means – be it through art, music, fashion, or any other form of self-expression.

We encourage everyone to participate by wearing colourful or expressive outfits, creating art displays, or engaging in activities that allow individuals to showcase their unique personalities. This surely will be a fun and uplifting day that will enable to foster a positive and inclusive environment within our school community.

Best wishes,
Mrs Weber