Mental Health Awareness Month invites us to put emotional wellbeing front and center, especially for kids. These six thoughtful activities, perfect for the classroom or home, help children explore their feelings, connect with others, and build healthy habits.
1. Silly Stories: Mindfulness of Emotions
Turn emotional awareness into a creative adventure. Kids will write their own silly stories to discover how feelings shift throughout the day, learning that emotions can change and that’s perfectly normal.
2. Understanding Others
Looking at facial expressions is an approachable way for kids to begin learning about moods. This worksheet guides them to examine their inner thoughts and consider how others might feel in different situations.
3. ‘You Are Not Alone’ Project
Encourage learners to connect with their community and spread kindness. This activity asks kids to learn about local organizations that support those who may feel left out and brainstorm ways to help through letters, outreach, or volunteering.
4. Be Present with Mindful Movement
Reset and refocus with simple, mindful stretches that promote calm, awareness, and joy. This movement-based activity is perfect for brain breaks, a warm up before learning, or soaking up a little sunshine outside, all while encouraging students to be present in the moment.
5. Create Your Own Affirmation Cards
Boost confidence and inspire positive self-talk with this affirmation card activity. Kids will create their own set of “I am” statements using prompts and a printable template, building self-esteem and resilience along the way.
6. Respond to a Topic: Mental Health Awareness Month (May)
In this writing prompt, learners will learn about the importance of mental health and respond to reflective questions that foster empathy, self-awareness, and meaningful conversation. It’s a great way to strengthen writing skills while supporting emotional growth during this month.
Need more resources to help you start the conversation about Mental Health Awareness Month? Check out the 500+ social-emotional learning resources in the Education.com Learning Library.