Supporting Young Minds: Mental Health in Primary Schools

World Mental Health Day, observed on 10th October, is a key moment in the school calendar to reflect on how we support children's emotional wellbeing in the classroom. In the early years of education, developing a healthy sense of self, safety, and belonging is just as important as learning times tables or phonics. With mental health challenges among children on the rise, primary schools have a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference, through consistent routines, open conversations, and recognition of effort and kindness.

Helping children identify and express their feelings is often the first step. In KS1 and KS2, activities such as "feelings check-ins" or classroom discussions around emotions can help normalise conversations about mental health. Creating safe spaces where pupils feel seen and valued can go a long way in promoting emotional resilience.

Building these habits into everyday classroom life doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple visual like an “Emotion Wall” or a daily check-in chart allows children to identify how they’re feeling, offering teachers insight into who may need a little extra support that day. Encouraging children to be kind to themselves and to others can also help nurture a culture of empathy and care.

Small acknowledgements, like stickers for showing kindness, patience, or for simply trying their best, can have a powerful impact. Recognising emotional effort, not just academic results, reinforces the message that all progress matters. A child who takes a deep breath instead of reacting with frustration, or who helps a classmate feel included, is showing growth worth celebrating.

As World Mental Health Day reminds us, mental health isn't just about challenges, it's also about building the strengths and support networks children need to thrive. By weaving these values into daily classroom life, we can help create a learning environment where every child feels safe, supported, and able to shine.

Click here to find out more from the World Health Organisation website.