As we move through these initial weeks of the 2021-22 school year we want to ensure that families have information at their fingertips about how to promote positive mental health in their children/teens through this transition. You may wish to take a few moments to read the following tip sheet: https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Supporting-Mental-Health-and-Wellness-during-the-Return-to-School-Tip-Sheet-EN.pdf

You are also invited to visit the new WCDSB Mentally Healthy Return-to-school page at https://www.wcdsb.ca/return-to-school/, which features resources to promote wellbeing for the entire family. You will find videos and resources such as:

• A parent/caregiver wellbeing video series
• Tip sheets on noticing if your child/teen is struggling with mental health, and how to respond to concerns teens may have about the return to school
• Information to help your child/teen re-engage with school if they having difficulty due to mental health concerns
• Tip sheets for teens directly on recognizing if they need help, how to ask for help, how to help a friend, etc.
• Info about getting sleeping patterns back on track
• Other mental health resources and links for families

Additional information is also available on the Board’s Mental Health and Wellbeing page at: https://www.wcdsb.ca/programs-and-services/mental-health-and-well-being/

Wishing all the best for your and your family as we head into the 2021-22 school year!