Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) are skills that are needed to start and keep friendships, complete tasks, and stay positive in the face of stress or adversity.

There are 6 main categories of social-emotional learning according to School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO):

• identify and manage emotions
• cope with stress
• stay positive and persevere when things are difficult
• build and keep healthy relationships
• understand and celebrate our identity
• engage in critical and creative thinking

Visit the SMHO to learn and watch more videos.

Here are 5 ways parents and families can support child and youth mental health:

1. Support social-emotional skill development and overall well-being.
2. Know the signs of mental health problems.
3. Help your child to access support if you think professional help is needed.
4. Be there for your child through the ups and downs of life.
5. Take care of your own mental health and model good self-care!

You may find that some of these directly support your child's Social-Emotional Learning.

Visit the School Mental Health Ontario website for activities that you can practice with your family.

Deep Belly Breathing Activity

Emotional Charades Activity

What's the Temperature Activity

Kindness Jar Activity

How to Work Together with Superior North Catholic District School Board (SNCDSB) to Access Support for Your Child:

• If you're concerned about your child's mental health, you can speak to your child's classroom teacher.
• Be specific about your concerns so you and the teacher can figure out the best way to help. Share any information you think may be helpful to the teacher-for example:
• situations your child has dealt with that may impact their mental health
• approaches that seem to help your child
• specific behaviours you're noticing
• Ask the teacher what they've noticed at school. Some children may seem fine at school, but display different behaviours at home. Discuss what you're seeing.
• You can request a meeting with the school's mental support staff as well to talk through how to support your child.
• Ask about options for ongoing communication so you can share new information with the teacher.

Source: School Mental Health Ontario