children's mental health
The theme of Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 (9th -15th February) was ‘This is my place’. We know that our sense of belonging as individuals, in our friendships, in school, and in communities plays a vital role in our mental health and wellbeing. To know our place and really feel part of our environment is a basic human need. It can have powerful and long-lasting impacts in lots of areas of our lives, including our physical and mental health, education, employment and relationships. When we feel that we belong, it empowers us to contribute to the world and make a real difference.
You can find out more about this theme and get resources for parents/carers on the official CMHW site: https://www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk/
There are specific resources that families can use on this page: https://www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk/families/
Below is the presentation used in our assembly at the start of 2026 CMHW:
The Essex Wellbeing Service
This is an early intervention service that supports everyone in Essex to live healthy and socially connected lives. With practical, emotional, health and wellbeing advice, support and signposting they help Essex residents to lead their best possible life and to find the right support at the right time, including support in the community for a range of health, wellbeing and day to day needs – supporting families to adapt to the 'new normal'. This can be accessed here: https://www.essexwellbeingservice.co.uk/
There are several other sources of information and resources below that parents may find helpful::
WELLBEING AND MENTAL HEALTH AT CHRISTMAS
Christmas is a wonderful time of the year for most children but can also cause their mental health and wellbeing to be negatively affected due to the stress, anxiety and busyness that can come with the season. Here are some activities and suggestions for helping children to maintain/build good mental health and wellbeing this Christmas.