May 7th  National Child & Youth Mental Health Day established by FamilySmart in 2007, highlights how small moments of care make a big difference. As part of National Child & Youth Mental Health Week, this day reminds us that when young people feel seen, heard, and supported, their mental health improves. Even the smallest moments—checking in, listening, or simply showing up—can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental health. “I Care About You” is at the heart of May 7, reminding us that through conversations, support, and everyday actions, we can help young people feel seen, heard, and valued.

Check out FamilySmart’s May 7th website, which lists a number of virtual events for parents and caregivers, as well as activities and videos for elementary, middle, and secondary school communities.

The team at the Kelty Centre is also excited to recognize this day by sharing some of our resources to support caring conversations and child & youth mental health and wellbeing:

• Find some tips for Talking to Youth About Mental Health.  
• Check out our Ask Kelty Mental Health interactive tool where you can search and see answers to commonly asked questions about accessing mental health supports and services in BC.    
• Revisit our Where You Are podcast minisode, Helping Kids Grow Through What They Go Through. This episode helps parents and their children find strategies so we can not just survive the challenges in our lives, but come through them stronger than before.    
• Listen to our No Shortage of Questions podcast episodes, which outline How To Talk To Your Child About Scary News and Helping Kids Cope with Big Life Changes    
• Share our free Breathr app with your family members, and make time for mindfulness.  It can be fun, easy to try and can improve your connection with others.    

We hope you will join us and our partners at FamilySmart in celebrating National Child & Youth Mental Health Day —because a moment of connection can change a life.