This is my place – Children's Mental Health Week '26 
We’re delighted to be taking part in Children’s Mental Health Week 2026, led by Place2Be, with this year’s theme “This is My Place.”
The week is all about helping children explore their sense of belonging; their belonging to their family, school, friends, teams, clubs, or special places that make them feel safe, happy, and valued. These connections are so important because when children feel they belong, they are more confident, ready to learn and play, and better able to cope with life’s ups and downs.
Across the week, we’ll be creating lots of calm, positive moments that support children’s wellbeing and help them understand that mental health is something we all have – it’s the way we think and feel, our ability to bounce back from challenges, and the energy we have to tackle hard things.
Across the week (Monday 9th – Friday 13th February) children will be supported through a range of whole-school activities:
- Each morning, children will answer the register using positive affirmations, helping them start the day feeling confident and valued.
- Daily whole class movement breaks and post-lunch mindfulness sessions with Smiling Mind to explore mindfulness practice and breathwork.
- We will hold Children’s Mental Health Week assemblies for Reception, KS1 and KS2, focusing on belonging and emotional wellbeing.
- On Express Yourself Day (Friday 13th of February), children and staff are invited to wear clothes that make them feel comfortable and like their best selves.
- On Wednesday 11th February, the whole school will enjoy The Great Outdoors, with shared outdoor play for all children and adults.
- Classes will also enjoy a wellbeing story time at 3.00pm, choosing from a selection of books provided by the PSHE lead.
“This Is My Place” Talk and Draw art activity
As part of the week, children will take part in a “This Is My Place” Talk and Draw art activity. They will draw the outline of their own island on A3 paper and add the people, places, and things that give them a sense of belonging. Islands can be simple or detailed, and while children may bring in optional materials such as magazine cuttings or photos, this is not required – art resources will be provided in school. On the last day of term, children will bring their island home to share with you, giving them a chance to talk about what helps them feel happy, safe, and like their best selves. This is a lovely opportunity for families to continue the conversation at home and reinforce the message that looking after our mental health is just as important as looking after our bodies.
