May is mental health month, an important time to recognize and prioritize mental well-being, foster supportive communities, and encourage open dialogue.
Teaching young children how to manage emotions, behavior, and thoughts is important for creating a foundation for mental health as well as preparing them for life’s inevitable challenges. It’s also an important part of their overall development.
Self-regulation plays a critical role in helping children develop things like flexible thinking and self-control, also known as executive function. When self-regulation is taught during early childhood, it can have a positive impact on academic and social success. This often contributes to better wellbeing overall.
At Kiddie Academy®, we recognize mental health month all year long by supporting and building self-regulation skills in the classrooms through our Cozy areas, a place where children can go to feel safe, practice mindfulness techniques and regulate big emotions. We ensure the area is warm and inviting, offering visual support separate from the busy areas in the classroom. Children are encouraged to visit our Cozy Areas when they feel sad, mad, frustrated, nervous, or even tired.
It’s important to recognize that children need breaks so they can identify and regain control of their emotions. This month, we invite you to consider ways you can create Cozy Areas for your child at home, so they can continue learning self-regulation both in and out of the classroom.
