Express Yourself! Children's Mental Health Week 2021
This year Children’s Mental Health Week takes place between 1st and 7th February 2021 and the theme is “Express Yourself”. The organisers, Place2Be, are encouraging children, young people and adults alike to explore different ways to express ourselves by sharing feelings, ideas, and thoughts through creative activities such as dance, drama, art, music, poetry, writing and film.
Place2Be launched Children's Mental Health Week in 2015 to shine a spotlight on the importance of children and young people's mental health and this year the charity hopes that more people than ever will get involved – especially as the impacts of continuing COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns take their toll.
The charity estimates that 85 percent of the young people they support have been negatively affected by the pandemic and have seen an increase in referrals around self-harm and suicidal thoughts in secondary schools. Around three children in every primary school class have a mental health problem, and many more struggle with challenges from bullying to bereavement.
A separate, newly released study shows that young people’s mental and emotional health has deteriorated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Relationships with family and friends, use of social media and reduced participation in sports and other activities are all identified as key drivers of young people’s mental health that have been adversely affected by school closures and lockdown restrictions. And, of course, looked-after children may face additional traumas, separation issues, and other concerns
There are plenty of ways for fostering families in Rotherham to get involved. A great place to start is by listening to a new and uplifting recording of the Bill Withers’ classic ‘Lovely Day’ recorded by pop icon Billy Ocean and the Young Voices Choir especially for Children’s Mental Health Week and the UK profits from the song will go to Place2Be’s work supporting children and young people’s mental health during these challenging times.
There are lots of resources available at www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk, which includes guides, slides, group activities, fundraising ideas and many more ways to help children, young people, and adults to express themselves. All the ideas can be adapted for home-schooling, online lessons and independent learning.
You can also find further support with our Therapeutic Team, who work to strengthen the stability of placements and support the emotional wellbeing of young people. Specifically, you can access advice and support if you have any concerns about a child’s mental health and wellbeing.
It is also worth checking out our previous blog about wellbeing apps to help maintain good mental health and practise self-care.
Please remember that there is 24/7 support available for our foster carers and children in care - so please do reach out if you are struggling, we are only a phone call away.
It is important to let your child know that if they are not sure about something, they should talk to an adult they trust. It could be you, someone in your family, a teacher or another staff member. You can also find a list of organisations that provide support and advice on the Place2Be website.