THE TOOLKIT PROJECT - SUPPORTING PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

A toolkit aimed at addressing the mental health and well-being of children in primary schools has been developed by Cork Mental Health Foundation. This free toolkit aims to support children’s mental health within their schools.

The charity, Cork Mental Health Foundation, has developed the mental health toolkit of resources for primary school children as they deal with the transition from primary school to post primary school, which will be all the more difficult with the Covid-19 restrictions.

The Toolkit Project is an evolution of the presentations given in schools by Cork Mental Health, over the past 6 years. It will support 5th and 6th class children by providing information to staff about the range of tools and services that are available within their community and on-line, to help discuss mental wellbeing amongst their students as well as allowing the subject of mental health to be discussed openly in the classroom.

GET THE CONVERSATION STARTED

This mental health toolkit facilitates discussion in and around taking care of and identifying needs around the mental health supports needed for children transitioning into 2nd level education, in a safe and comfortable environment, facilitated by their school.

This toolkit can also be supported by Cork Mental Health’s Education officer who will attend the school and give a presentation on the information contained in the toolkit to get the conversation started on topics such as : What is mental health?; Who are your supports?; Food and mood; Sleep; Social media and Coping skills.

Brendan McCarthy, CEO Cork Mental Health said, “Covid-19, unexpected 12-months ago, is only going to add further pressure on many young children and the importance of our programme cannot be underestimated.”

In summary, the beneficiaries are the 19,000+ 5th and 6th class children in Cork city and county, preparing for adolescence and transitioning into post-primary school.