Childhood Mental Health: What do I know?
During my time in the classroom, I encountered many students with emotional and mental health needs. These experiences have highlighted the importance of prioritizing emotional health in the classroom. I'd like to share some stories that illustrate this, along with some strategies that can help educators support their students' emotional well-being.
Self-Esteem + Support
One of my most memorable students was a boy I taught in both kindergarten and 4th grade. When he first entered my classroom, he had a deeply negative self-image, often shutting down for long periods and sometimes destroying classroom materials. Despite my efforts to offer love and support, he needed more than I alone could provide.
By 4th grade, he was still struggling. Now on an IEP, he was constantly seeking validation from peers and adults. However, there were glimmers of growth and, ultimately, hope. His parents worked tirelessly to show him love and support, learning along the way how to better meet his needs. He began to show signs of self-esteem and found joy in digital creativity. This became a very important part of his emotional growth.
The Lifesaving Power of Creativity
Another student stood out for her high performance in kindergarten. She read all of Harry Potter before first grade and then joined the school’s dual language Spanish class. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a mental health crisis. At just seven years old, she expressed a desire to end her life. Her parents, a teacher and a nurse, provided extensive support, but she also discovered a creative outlet that became her lifeline.
She began to draw, paint, and write, eventually blossoming into a songwriter, singer, and guitarist. Creativity didn't just occupy her time; it gave her a way to process her emotions and express herself. Today, she continues to create, demonstrating the profound impact that emotional and creative support can have on a child's life. She credits her life to creativity.
When Support Doesn’t Come
Another student had severe behavioral issues in kindergarten. He would hit, scream, destroy materials, and even elope from the classroom. His actions weren't intentional but rather a result of lacking the skills and accommodations he needed. By 4th grade, these behaviors persisted, and as he grew bigger and stronger, the challenges became more difficult for the adults supporting him to manage.
This student's journey highlights the necessity of early intervention and consistent support. Waiting for children to "grow out of" their issues is not a viable strategy. We must actively seek ways to support them from the very beginning.
What Do We Do?
These stories emphasize the need for comprehensive support systems for students with emotional and mental health needs. Here are some strategies that I have found can make a significant difference:
Sensory Accommodations: Providing a sensory-friendly environment can help students who struggle with overstimulation or sensory processing issues. This might include quiet corners, sensory tools, adjusted lights, or flexible seating options.
Partnership with Parents: Parent-teacher collaboration is so important. Regular communication and a team approach ensure that students receive consistent support at home and at school.
Involvement of Special Educators/Learning Specialists/Occupational Therapists/School Psychologists: These professionals bring expertise in developing and implementing strategies tailored to each student's unique needs.
Access to Counseling Services: School counselors can provide individual and group support, helping students develop coping skills and resilience.
Building Relationships: Strong, trusting relationships between teachers and students create a safe space for students to express themselves and seek help when needed.
Parental Support Services: Parents navigating their child's mental health crises often feel isolated. Providing access to free support services, such as parenting classes and counseling, can make a significant difference.
No One Should Feel Alone
The journey of supporting students with emotional and mental health needs is challenging but incredibly rewarding. As educators, we must ensure that no one—neither students nor their families—feels alone in this process. By providing early intervention, consistent support, and a strong network of resources, we can help our students thrive both emotionally and academically.
This is why I'm here, sharing these stories and strategies. Together, we can create classrooms that nurture our students and their families— let’s rise together.
Love,
Shel
