Every child deserves to feel supported, loved and understood, but navigating their mental health can sometimes feel challenging. With Children’s Mental Health Week happening from the 3rd to the 9th of February 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can nurture young minds.

Remember, focusing on children’s mental health isn’t just about solving problems – it’s about creating an environment where young people feel secure and valued every day.

Children thrive when they know someone is genuinely listening to them. Take the time to ask how they’re feeling and let them know it’s okay to share anything, even the tough stuff. Sometimes it’s not about fixing their problems but just being there, offering reassurance and understanding.

If words are hard to come by, explore other ways they can express themselves, like drawing or storytelling. Writing or playing games together can also help children open up in a way that feels natural to them. Creating this space shows them that their feelings matter and that you’re always there to support their mental health.

Life can feel unpredictable at times, especially for children. A steady routine provides a comforting rhythm, giving them a sense of stability. Whether it’s regular mealtimes, a consistent bedtime or time carved out for play and relaxation, these small anchors in the day can bring calm to even the busiest lives.

For younger children, routines might include bedtime stories or morning check-ins. For older ones, it might mean encouraging habits like journaling or planning their day.

Of course, there’s always room for flexibility when needed. Balance is key to promoting children’s mental health.

When life feels overwhelming, knowing they’re loved unconditionally can be a lifeline for a child. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures. Instead, a hug, a kind word or simply spending quality time together can mean the world.

Take moments to celebrate their uniqueness and achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s applauding their effort on a school project or simply laughing at their jokes, these moments of connection build a foundation of trust and security. When children feel loved, their mental health flourishes.

These gestures also reinforce the importance of prioritising children’s mental health in everyday life.

There’s nothing like fresh air and movement to lift a child’s spirits. Kicking a ball around the garden, going for a bike ride or even exploring a local park together is a great way to boost their mood and energy levels.

Physical activity helps reduce stress and encourages positive emotions. Nature, with its calming sights and sounds, has a unique way of helping children feel more grounded and at ease. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to bond. Even small activities, like a family walk or gardening, can make a big difference to children’s mental health.

Feeling heard and included can do wonders for a child’s confidence. Whether it’s choosing what’s for dinner, planning a weekend activity or picking out a new book to read together, involving them in decisions – big or small – helps them feel valued.

It’s also a chance to teach them problem-solving skills and show that their voice matters. Encouraging them to make choices fosters independence and helps them learn how to cope with challenges, further strengthening their mental health.

By involving children in these ways, we contribute to their overall sense of belonging and support their mental health development.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, children need extra support. And that’s okay. If your family is dealing with bereavement, The Laura Centre is here to help. Grief can be particularly difficult for young minds to process, but with the right care, they can find ways to heal and move forward.

Our compassionate team provides tailored support for children and families navigating loss, offering a safe space to explore their feelings. From one-to-one counselling to group sessions, we’re here to support children’s mental health in their most challenging times.

If your child’s struggling with mental health outside of a bereavement, YoungMinds, the NHS and NSPCC provide helpful advice.

Supporting children’s mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about showing up, listening and taking small, meaningful steps to help them feel safe and supported. You can find resources to support your child’s mental health here and here.

If you need help and supporting following the loss of a child, parent or sibling, remember you can turn to The Laura Centre.