Well-Being and Mental Health
We acknowledge that many of our students, parents/guardians, staff and school communities are all experiencing uncertainty and worry about their health and safety, and that of their loved ones. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, leading to ongoing disruptions in our personal and professional lives, it is important to acknowledge these impacts and intentionally look for ways to maintain and support our collective mental health and well-being.
Direct Access to DDSB Mental Health Team
The DDSB has members of our Social Work and Psychological Services teams available to connect with you throughout the summer. Our team can speak directly to you about your concerns and help connect you with services or supports in the community which can provide additional supports.
Connect with our Mental Health Team
We’ve created and gathered a variety of coping strategies and resources to support the needs of students, parents/guardians and staff.
| Self-Care & Healthy Habits |
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8 Feel Good Tips to Boost Your Mood |
| Gratitude Resources |
| Reach Out for Help |
| Well-Being & Healthy Habits |
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Healthy Habits - Sleep Hygiene in Kids Healthy Habits - How to Learn from Home Supporting Mental Health and Wellness During the Return to School |
| Easy and Fun Mental Health Activities for Home |
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Consider these playful activities that can help children learn fun and easy ways to support their mental health and cope during these challenging times.
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| Read Aloud Books |
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Mental health is an essential component of overall health. These read aloud picture books can be a fun and easy way to help children learn about their mental health and well-being. What’s My Superpower? – By Aviaq Johnston Sweetest Kulu – By Celina Kalluk My Heart – By Corinna Luyken We’re All Wonders – By R.J. Palacio Teacup – By Rebecca Young Whimsy’s Heavy Things – By Julie Kraulis Visiting Feelings – By Lauren Rubenstein
Find the above videos available in other languages on the School Mental Health Ontario Read Aloud Books webpage. |
| Gratitude Resources |
Classroom Resources
| Grab & Go Tools |
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Consider these simple learning activities as part of your everyday mental health practices at school, taken from SMHO Mentally Healthy Back to School Support Package.
Find a full list of these classroom tools on the School Mental Health Ontario website. |
| Conversation Starters |
| The classroom is an excellent place to promote and protect student mental health. Educators can use these Class Conversation Starter cards to develop a welcoming and caring classroom that supports learning, wellness, and equitable outcomes for all students. |
| Every Day Mental Health Classroom Resource |
| The Everyday Mental Health Classroom Resource offers a collection of high-quality, everyday mental health practices to enhance students’ social and emotional skills. Little things can make a big difference. Consider any one of these easy-to-implement mental health practices for elementary classrooms. |
Please click on the banner above or visit Spark for staff resources.
