Supporting Children's Mental Health at The Early Years Academy

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Children’s Mental Health Week

Children’s mental health is just as important as their physical health, and it lays the foundation for their overall wellbeing and future development. At The Early Years Academy, we recognise the significance of fostering positive mental health from a young age, creating environments that nurture children’s emotional resilience and confidence.

As part of Children’s Mental Health Week, we want to highlight the ways we support children’s wellbeing in our nurseries and offer advice for parents to continue this support at home. By working together, we can help children develop the skills they need to manage emotions, build relationships, and navigate the world around them.

Why Mental Health in Early Years Matters

Research shows that a child’s early experiences shape their mental and emotional development. According to the NHS, one in six children aged 5-16 has a probable mental health condition, and early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes. Young children may not always have the words to express their feelings, but through nurturing environments and supportive relationships, we can help them develop healthy ways to understand and communicate their emotions.

At The Early Years Academy, we embed mental health support into everything we do, ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and heard.

How We Support Children's Mental Health at The Early Years Academy

We take a holistic approach to children’s mental health, considering their physical environment, emotional connections, and opportunities for self-expression. Here’s how:

1. Calming Environments & Soft Lighting
A child’s surroundings play a crucial role in their emotional state. Our nurseries are designed with calming, neutral tones and soft lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere. Research shows that harsh lighting and overstimulating environments can increase anxiety in young children, whereas a warm, nurturing space helps them feel secure and focused.

2. Creative & Quiet Spaces
Children need time to process their thoughts and emotions. That’s why we provide creative corners and quiet areas where they can take a moment for themselves. Whether it's engaging in mindful activities like drawing, reading a book, or simply having some quiet time, these spaces encourage self-regulation and reflection.

3. Forest School Academy – The Power of Nature
Spending time outdoors has been proven to reduce stress and boost wellbeing. Our Forest School Academy gives children the opportunity to explore, climb, build, and connect with nature. Studies show that outdoor play improves concentration, reduces anxiety, and promotes problem-solving skills. Fresh air, physical activity, and the sensory experience of nature all contribute to a calm and happy mindset.

4. Encouraging Emotional Expression
At The Early Years Academy, we actively teach children how to identify and express their emotions. We use:

  • Emotion cards to help children understand different feelings.
  • Circle time discussions to talk about worries and joys.
  • Storytelling to explore emotions through characters and narratives.

By giving children the vocabulary and confidence to discuss their feelings, we help them develop essential emotional intelligence skills that will benefit them for life.

5. Strong Key Worker Relationships
Every child at our nurseries has a dedicated Key Worker, providing a consistent and trusted adult they can turn to. These relationships build a sense of security and belonging, helping children feel understood, supported, and valued. If a child is feeling overwhelmed, their Key Worker can offer reassurance, helping them to navigate their emotions in a safe and comforting way.

6. Embedding Our Ethos – Being, Belonging, Becoming
Our approach to mental health is deeply rooted in our ethos:

  • Being – Allowing children to be themselves, recognising their emotions, and feeling safe in their environment.
  • Belonging – Fostering relationships and a sense of connection with peers and adults.
  • Becoming – Helping children grow in confidence, resilience, and emotional understanding as they prepare for the future.

How Parents Can Support Children's Mental Health at Home

Supporting children’s mental health isn’t just something that happens at nursery – it’s a journey that continues at home. Here are some simple ways parents can help:

1. Create a Calming Space
Just as we provide quiet areas at nursery, consider setting up a cosy corner at home where your child can relax. A small tent, a beanbag, or a reading nook can offer a retreat when they need some downtime.

2. Talk About Feelings
Encourage open conversations about emotions. Instead of asking, "Did you have a good day?", try asking, "What was the best part of your day?" or "Did anything make you feel sad or frustrated?". Using books and stories to explore emotions can also be a helpful tool.

3. Spend Time Outdoors Together
Nature is a wonderful stress reliever. Take regular walks, visit parks, or simply spend time in the garden. Engaging in outdoor activities as a family helps strengthen emotional bonds and encourages mindfulness.

4. Develop a Routine
Children feel safer and more secure when they know what to expect. A predictable routine, including regular mealtimes and bedtime rituals, can reduce anxiety and improve emotional wellbeing.

5. Model Positive Coping Strategies
Children learn by watching adults. Show them healthy ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing, talking about worries, or engaging in a relaxing hobby. This teaches them how to handle big emotions in a constructive way.

Working Together for Children's Wellbeing

At The Early Years Academy, we believe that mental health support should be a collaborative effort between nursery and home. By working together, we can give children the tools to express themselves, manage their emotions, and build resilience for the future.

This Children’s Mental Health Week, let’s celebrate the importance of emotional wellbeing and continue to create environments where children can thrive, belong, and grow into confident individuals.

If you have any concerns about your child’s mental health or want to learn more about how we support wellbeing at our nurseries, feel free to speak to our team – we’re always here to help.

💚 Because every child deserves to feel happy, safe, and understood. 💚

Ready To Experience The EYA Way Yourself?

Book a visit to one of our nurseries today and see how we create a home-away-from-home for your child.

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