In today’s world, mental health and behavioral disorders are impacting more children than ever before. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 7 children aged 2 to 8 has been diagnosed with a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder (MBDD). This statistic only accounts for those who have received formal diagnoses.
MBDDs are notably more common among boys, non-Hispanic white children, those aged 6 to 8, and children living in poverty. However, any child can be affected. It’s crucial for all of us to contribute to addressing this pressing issue by providing children with the necessary resources, support, coping strategies, and love.
You might assume that schools—where children spend the majority of their time—would be proactive about these concerns. Many educators certainly are, approaching their students with the same care and affection they would offer their own children. Yet, the question remains: Are schools doing everything they can to focus on their students’ socio-emotional wellbeing? Why isn’t mental health given as much attention in school curricula as subjects like math and reading? Teaching children how to be empathetic and cooperative members of society should be prioritized alongside academic learning.
Enter Sarah Johnson, a kindergarten teacher at Maplewood Elementary in Springfield, Illinois, who has dedicated 15 years to shaping young minds. Recently, Johnson made a compelling Facebook post discussing these critical issues, expressing her desire for her students to “thrive not just academically but as individuals.” She detailed her approach to fostering her students’ mental health alongside their educational achievements.
“I’ve been losing a lot of sleep lately,” Johnson writes. “My social media feeds are filled with news about school shootings, safety plans, and debates about arming teachers. What troubles me most is the ongoing blame game between parents and educators. I refuse to be part of that discussion.”
So what does Johnson believe we should focus on? It’s about taking concrete actions and having meaningful conversations with students about mental health. “I mold children,” she affirms. “I am their first step outside the home. I can create an environment where they want to learn and show them that education can be enjoyable. I wholeheartedly choose to do this. My students become my children.”
Every day, Johnson greets her students at the door with warmth and affection, recognizing that, for some, her hugs may be the only love they receive that day. She ensures that needy children have extra snacks and provides clothing and essentials for those from low-income families.
These small acts can significantly impact the lives of these children, proving just as vital as teaching foundational skills. “Over the years, I’ve encountered students who have faced abuse, neglect, or trauma from having one or both parents in prison. Many have lost parents to illness or suicide,” Johnson reflects. “The number of students dealing with mental health issues, including anxiety that requires weekly counseling, is staggering. What used to be rare is now a sad norm.”
But Johnson believes that merely showering these kids with affection isn’t enough; schools must introduce programs that target mental health. Noticing a gap in existing initiatives, she decided to take action herself. Last year, she successfully obtained a grant for an afterschool yoga and mindfulness program, which attracted over 100 participants. “This was my first step toward creating change,” Johnson says.
However, she aspires to do even more. “I’m committed to igniting a movement that prioritizes mental health education in schools,” she states. “We need to teach self-management, growth mindset, social awareness, respect, and responsibility. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts and a lack of state funding, these topics often get sidelined.”
In her post, she shared a brilliant idea for a mental health reading list to serve as a foundation for a mental health curriculum aimed at young children. This reading list, which she linked on Amazon, includes books addressing topics like divorce, grief, parental incarceration, autism, citizenship, friendship, and embracing diversity. These are real, pressing issues that need open discussion, and it is commendable that Johnson has taken the initiative to create such a valuable resource.
Johnson told us that not only has her “wish list” been fulfilled for her own school, but it has also inspired other schools to request these books. “It’s rewarding to know that others are using my list to inspire their own movements,” she revealed. “I’ve received feedback from educators, librarians, and parents eager to utilize this list to support their children. It’s an honor to contribute to this movement, and I look forward to seeing it grow.”
We need more educators and leaders like Johnson, who are willing to start important conversations about mental and emotional well-being. In this era, we cannot overlook the significance of nurturing our children’s mental health. It is uplifting to witness educators stepping up to address such critical issues and providing the support that every child deserves. For more insights on related topics, check out this article and this resource that delve into pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, Sarah Johnson has taken a stand to create a movement focused on mental health awareness in schools, emphasizing that nurturing emotional and psychological well-being is as crucial as academic achievement. Her efforts serve as an inspiring reminder of the impact a dedicated teacher can have on the lives of students facing various challenges.