Our Five Essential Strategies for Supporting Children's Mental Health Today, at PIPAS

Children’s mental health often goes unnoticed because their struggles don’t always show up in words. Instead, many children express their feelings through their behaviour or body language. Recognizing these signs and responding with practical support can make a big difference. This post shares five clear strategies you can use right now to help children feel calmer, more focused, and emotionally supported every day.

Recognise Regulation Needs

Children often show stress or anxiety through actions like fidgeting, restlessness, or withdrawal. These behaviours are not simply “bad behaviour” but signals that a child might be overwhelmed or anxious. Understanding this helps adults respond with empathy rather than frustration.

How to support regulation needs:

• Build predictable routines and smooth transitions to reduce uncertainty.

• Include regular movement or sensory breaks during the day to help children reset.

• Observe children’s body language carefully before reacting. Ask yourself, What is this child’s body trying to tell me?

  
  

For example, a child who suddenly becomes quiet and avoids eye contact might be feeling overwhelmed. Offering a quiet space or a calming activity can help them regain control.

Make Wellbeing Practical and Visible

Mental health support works best when it is part of everyday life, not just during special lessons or sessions. Embedding wellbeing into daily activities helps children feel supported consistently.

Simple ways to do this:

• Hold standing or walking meetings in small groups to keep energy flowing.

• Give children choices in tasks or learning spaces to increase their sense of control.

• Use calming or alerting activities before exams, assemblies, or transitions to prepare children emotionally.

  
  

Even small changes like these can improve mood, attention, and social engagement. For example, starting the day with a few minutes of deep breathing or stretching can help children feel ready to learn.

Collaborate With Children, Not Just About Them

Children understand their own experiences better than anyone else. Including them in decisions about their mental health support builds trust and effectiveness.

Ways to collaborate:

• Ask children what helps them feel calm, focused, or happy.

• Offer two or three options for movement, sensory, or organisational activities instead of giving direct orders.

• Encourage self-advocacy by helping children notice patterns in what helps them regulate their emotions.

  
  

For instance, a child might prefer using a stress ball or taking a short walk when feeling anxious. Giving them the choice empowers them to manage their feelings.

Consider the Environment

The spaces where children spend time affect their mental health. Overstimulating or chaotic environments can increase stress, while calm and predictable spaces support focus and emotional wellbeing.

Environmental adjustments to try:

• Create quiet corners or calming zones where children can take breaks.

• Use soft lighting and reduce noise levels when possible.

• Arrange furniture to allow clear pathways and reduce crowding.

  
  

Even small changes, like adding plants or using neutral colours, can make a room feel more peaceful and inviting. These adjustments help children feel safe and ready to engage.

Support Staff Wellbeing

Adults who support children need care too. When staff feel stressed or overwhelmed, it affects their ability to help children effectively.

Ways to support staff:

• Encourage regular breaks and moments to pause and reflect during the day.

• Provide opportunities for staff to share experiences and support each other.

• Embed mental health practices into everyday routines for everyone, not just children.

  
  

Occupational therapy teaches that caring for staff wellbeing is essential because adults cannot support children well if they are drained. A healthy, supported team creates a positive environment for children’s mental health.