This toolkit will help parents/carers to:

• Understand good mental health and mental health difficulties in children and young people
• Be aware of why and when difficulties can arise and what to look out for
• Know how to help your child if they are struggling
• Know when and how to get professional help
• Understand that they need to look after themselves, too.

Click HERE to download the toolkit

MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness means paying full attention to something. It means slowing down to really notice what you're doing.

It is the opposite of rushing or multitasking. When you're mindful, you're taking your time. You're focusing in a relaxed, easy way.

 Mindfulness apps for students

• Headspace for Kids: As one of the most popular mindfulness apps in the world, Headspace can be accessed on any device and guides users to learn the basics of meditation in just ten-daily, ten-minute lessons. Headspace for Kids is their newest launch designed specifically for younger generations.
• Buddhify: This guided meditation and mindfulness app deals with everything from intense emotions to sleep. Its optional Buddhify Membership unlocks features like kid-friendly, ‘karaoke-style’ meditations, which can be read aloud, as well as weekly video courses.

 Non-tech tools.

1. Box breathing. Hold one nostril, slowly breathe in and hold for a few seconds. Close the opposite nostril and slowly breathe out. Repeat for a few minutes.
2. Body scan. Start at the top of the head and focus on each subsequent muscle group until you reach the toes. Students can do this on their own or as guided by their instructor.
3. Colouring. As with many forms of art therapy, colouring has been shown to reduce stress and improve focus. It’s great for adults too and can be implemented anytime a mindful break is needed.