Children learn behaviours and habits form those around them. Which is why it is vital that you share and model your own good behaviours. Whether that be you sharing with them the ways in which you take care of your own mental health or normalising the topic by having open conversations about it within your classroom. As a Teacher you are already well versed in the practices of modelling the positive attitudes, values and behaviour which are expected of pupils, as it is part of the teaching standards (DfE, 2011). Continuing to do this alongside the of the topic of mental health and wellbeing will create a safe and respectful environment for your pupils.
If a pupil shares their worries or concerns with you it is key that you take time to listen and empathise rather than trying to immediately “fix” their problem or referring them onto another member of staff (Mental Health foundation, 2018). One of the ways in which you can improve you practice is through the use of “active listening”. To be an active listener all you need to do is be focused on what that person is saying and ask yourself, “what are they saying explicitly?”, “what are they not saying?”, “where is the emotion?” and “what do they repeatedly say?” (Pykitt, 2019, p118). This will help you to respond to the child with far greater ease. Additionally, you must be empathetic. Empathy is a fuel for connection (Brown, 2013), it allows us to show others that we are there for them with no judgment. It involves us acknowledging another feelings and attempting to understand their point of view. After taking time to listen and empathise, you are then ready to help, but If you have any concerns about their safety, follow your school’s safeguarding policy and discuss with your designated safeguarding lead (Mental Health foundation, 2018)
listen and empathise
modeling and developing respectful relationships