Human Values Foundation

Life-enriching values for everyone

Registered Charity Number: 1048755
Horsham, West Sussex

Lockdown - Supporting children's mental health & wellbeing

Date Posted: 22 Aug 2020

Sadly, because of the ever-growing pressures of life in our complex and fast-paced world, along with the new anxieties that have arisen as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of children at risk of developing long-term mental health problems is real and mounting.

While schools have been closed, to help out we:

* Created a special, reassurung Coronavirus Assembly Kit and Lesson Plan just before lockdown with the theme of spreading kindness

* Made a FREE mini programme available for schools with keyworkers and for when the new term starts.  Circles of CARE (for ages 5 to 11) helps children understand their emotions and support each other in caring ways: thebigthinkcommunity.org.

* Hosted Zoom meetings so children missing their friends could connect with classmates.  We introduced My Big Feelings Compass to help with identifying and managing feelings.  The children loved the sessions, particularly those without siblings.

* Developed a new website for our Personal Development and Wellbeing programme for children aged 5 to 11, THE BIG THINK: the-big-think.org.  It is especially helpful for forming strong relationships and enabling children to manage their mental health and wellbeing effectively.

HOWEVER, the closure of schools has left a big, black hole in our budget for the Summer term with schools unable to subscribe for The Big Think and training, so we would very much appreciate a donation of whatever amount you can manage.

Thank you.