Choose from the sample newsletter inserts below to share key messages with parents/families of elementary school students:
Your Child’s Stress Behaviours
Sometimes challenging behaviors like arguing, tantrums, or shutting down are signs that your child is feeling overwhelmed. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with them?” try asking, “What’s happening to them?”
Stress can show up in many ways. For some kids, hidden stressors like too much screen time, not enough sleep, or not enough physical activity can build up and affect their behaviour.
Simple ways to help relieve stress:
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Create spaces where your child can go to feel calm and relaxed, when needed.
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Encourage outdoor play every day.
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Spend time with your child, being attentive, calm, and affectionate.
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Come together for mealtimes to socialize and build healthy eating habits.
For more tips visit School Mental Health Ontario. Concerned about your child’s mental health? Find out where to get help.
Parent Self Care
Taking care of yourself is important, especially when you’re taking care of others.
If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a break. Even just a few minutes can help you feel better. When you take care of your own feelings, it’s easier to help your child feel calm and supported.
Self-care doesn’t have to be hard. You can do something you enjoy, talk to a friend, or move your body with a walk or some stretching.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s how you stay strong and healthy!
Concerned about your child’s mental health? Find out where to get help.
Is Homework Stressing You Out?
During the school year, your child will likely have homework or need to study at home. You can help make this time less stressful for both of you.
When your child gets home, let them relax with a healthy snack. Then ask if they have any homework, what kind it is, and how long they think it will take.
It helps to have regular homework time each day and a quiet place to work. Your child might need a few minutes of support to get started and that’s okay!
Remember, it’s not your job to do the homework for them. Instead, ask questions that guide them and help them learn to solve problems on their own.
Be encouraging! Show interest in what they’re doing and notice the things they’re doing well. This helps them stay motivated and feel successful.
If homework is causing a lot of stress or confusion, talk to your child’s teacher to find a solution together.
Concerned about your child’s mental health? Find out where to get help.
Is Bedtime Stressing You Out?
Kids need 10-12 hours of sleep every night to stay healthy and focused. But bedtime can sometimes be a challenge!
You can help by setting a regular bedtime and sticking to it every night. Start getting ready about an hour before bed. Turn off the TV, phones, and computers so your child can start to wind down.
Spend quiet time together talking, reading, or listening to calming music. If you read books together, agree ahead of time how many stories you’ll read.
Make sure your child’s room is dark, cool, and quiet. A small nightlight is okay if it helps them feel comfortable.
Getting enough sleep helps your child feel better, behave well, and do their best at school!
Creating Safe and Healthy Schools
A Healthy School supports children to reach their full health and learning potential. There are many ways for you to get involved in creating a safe and healthy school for your child. Here are some ideas:
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Talk with your child about what they are learning at school and find ways to role-model or reinforce health messages at home.
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Stay informed about your child’s school through the school website and social media platforms.
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Get to know your child’s friends, other parents, and staff from the school and communicate often.
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Volunteer to participate on a committee that helps organize healthy activities for the school community. Contact your child’s school or your local public health unit to get started.
