Topic 4 Selecting activities
The activities should be selected based on the target audience; could be targeted to:
-
Students
-
Their parents
-
Other teachers or educators (e.g. sports coaches, dance teachers etc.)
Intervention activities should be selected based on these thematic categories:
-
E.g. information on common risk factors affecting mental health and well-being distributed across school
-
On the pandemic or public health crises
-
About common mental health struggles- identifying and normalising symptoms
-
Addressing a specific issue (e.g. generalised anxiety about the future)
-
Information on how to use existing support networks e.g. parents, peers, school counsellors
-
Activities το be designed in accordance with the policy and regulations of each country regarding the teacher- student communication.
Examples of activities
Specially designed lectures on well-being, guided online lessons on mental health, group discussions on mental health concerns, role play games (e.g. reacting to a co-student sharing a personal struggle or asking for help), and special homework assignments to be completed with parents.
Acceptance
Activities to be designed on the principle of acceptance for all students & all struggles & promote normalisation of mental health challenges e.g. low mood, worry, panic, helplessness.
Inclusion, equality and diversity
All students to participate and be mindful of individual differences, respectful of diversity and accepting.
Reflection
Has your school or you individually organised/implemented any social and emotional learning activities for students?
If yes:
- What was this activity?
- Has it worked well?
- Are there any areas that could be improved?
If no:
- What are the barriers?
- Can you suggest ideas for initiating engagement with this kind of activities?
Consider the below 5 recommendations when designing behavioural interventions:
