Helping Kids Feel Safe, Seen, and Supported on World Mental Health Day 

Children today are growing up in a crazy world. They face unique challenges that can feel overwhelming, and without the right support, children may struggle to make sense of their emotions. 

This World Mental Health Day, we’re reminded that mental wellbeing is just as important for children as it is for adults. As parents, carers, and teachers, we have a powerful role to play in shaping how young people understand, express, and care for their mental health. By building supportive environments, we can help children grow up feeling safe, resilient, and valued. 

Here are five ways adults can nurture children’s mental wellbeing every day. 

Normalise conversations about feelings 

Children often mirror the way adults talk about emotions. If we avoid conversations around feelings, they may grow up believing emotions are something to hide. 

Make feelings a normal part of daily life: 

• Ask gentle, open-ended questions such as: “What was something that made you smile today?” or “Was there a moment that made you feel worried?” 

• Share your own feelings in age-appropriate ways: “I felt a bit stressed earlier, so I went for a walk and that helped.” 

• Encourage children to name their emotions with simple words like happy, sad, angry, worried, or excited. 

Over time, these small conversations teach kids that all emotions are valid and that it’s safe to talk about them. 

Model healthy coping strategies 

Children don’t just listen to what we say — they watch what we do. By modelling positive ways of handling stress, we give them tools they can use when challenges arise. 

This might look like: 

• Taking a deep breath when frustrated, instead of snapping. 

• Talking openly about how a short walk, exercise, or journaling helps you reset. 

• Showing that it’s okay to ask for help, whether that’s from a teacher, doctor, or friend. 

When children see adults managing emotions constructively, they learn that it’s normal — and possible — to cope with difficulties. 

Build routines and predictability 

Consistency creates a sense of safety. For children, knowing what to expect helps reduce stress and builds trust. 

Ways to create this structure include: 

• Keeping regular times for meals, sleep, and schoolwork. 

• Having clear routines for mornings and evenings. 

• Establishing small rituals — like a bedtime story, family dinner, or a Friday night game — that children can look forward to. 

Even during unpredictable times, maintaining small, familiar routines reassures children that they are secure. 

Encourage play and creativity 

Play isn’t just fun — it’s vital for children’s emotional growth. Through play, kids learn problem-solving, resilience, and self-expression. 

Encourage both structured and unstructured play: 

• Physical play, such as sports or outdoor games, helps release energy and reduce stress. 

• Creative activities like drawing, music, or storytelling give children ways to process and express emotions. 

• Role play or imaginative games allow children to explore feelings and situations in a safe space. 

By prioritising play, we give children the freedom to explore who they are while building confidence and joy. 

Know when to seek extra support 

Sometimes, a child may need more help than family or teachers can provide. Signs that a child may be struggling include ongoing changes in behaviour, appetite, sleep, or social interactions. 

If these concerns persist, don’t hesitate to: 

• Reach out to school counsellors, pastoral staff, or child wellbeing leads. 

• Speak with a GP or child mental health professional. 

• Explore community support groups for parents and carers. 

Early support can make a significant difference. Seeking help is not a failure — it’s a proactive step toward helping a child thrive. 

On this World Mental Health Day, let’s remind children that their feelings matter, their voices matter, and that they are never alone.