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KIDS' KORNER

June 19, 2014 Issue #16

KEEPING OUR KIDS HEALTHY OVER SUMMER BREAK!

When we talk about keeping children healthy, we usually mean physically healthy. But mental health is just as important -- not only does it have everything to do with the quality of our lives, but it also affects our physical health!

As with physical health, there are some mental health problems that are biological or genetic and can't be prevented. But some can be prevented, or made less serious. We talk a lot about ways to keep kids physically healthy, like exercising or eating fruits and vegetables. But we tend to talk less about what parents can do to support their child's mental health. Summer break is the perfect time to think about things you can do to help keep your child mentally healthy:

Spend time with the child.
Have family dinners.
Monitor their media.
Get them involved in activities they enjoy.
Don't overschedule the child.
Get to know -- and check in with -- the other people in your child's life.
If something doesn't seem right to you, don't ignore it.

Click here to learn more

KIDS ROCK THE BLOCK!

June's Kid on the Block: Introducing Paul Worthington

Paul is 14 years old and in the ninth grade. Paul is liked by most of the students and his peers, but Paul has had a secret for many years. Because Paul grew up in a household where a parent abused drugs, it was easier for him to have access to illegal substances and alcohol. Growing up, his father wasn't around too much, and his mom worked a lot, too. As a result, Paul made some choices that got him into trouble. Paul liked to have parties at his house, and many other kids faced peer pressure to just "hang out" with him at his house where drinking and doing drugs took place.

In June 2014, MHA of Georgia's Kids on the Block Troupe introduced Paul for the first time in the script "Helping a Friend." This script focuses on Eric Van Aart confronting Paul about his drug use. Eric suggests that Paul come with him to the youth center, and to find some adults who will talk and listen with him about his problems. This script was performed for a group of teens, ages 12-17 years old.

Why Is Children's Mental Health Important?

Mental health - an essential part of children's overall health - has a complex interactive relationship with their physical health and their ability to succeed in school, at work and in society. Both physical and mental health affect how we think, feel and act on the inside and outside.

For instance, an overweight young boy who is teased about his weight may withdraw socially and become depressed and may be reluctant to play with others or exercise, which further contributes to his poorer physical health and as a result poorer mental health. These issues have long-term implications on the ability of children and youth to fulfill their potential as well as consequences for the health, education, labor, and criminal justice systems of our society.

LORIE'S UPDATE

Lorie

Summer is here! Our Kids on the Block troupe was very busy during the month of May. The Kids performed at seven schools and after school programs in the first two weeks of May alone! As we head into the summer months, it is important to remember that mental health and wellness is just as important as ever. Summer is a time for play (and keeping up with some homework), but it is also a time to let children remember that there are trusted adults and helpers who are here to support and encourage them. During the school year, the KOTB curriculum highlights the trusted adults within the school structure. When children are at home or going away to camp, there is an excellent opportunity to identify trusted adults and helpers within the community who can also provide help to children at these times. These individuals include other trusted family members, camp counselors, persons at your place of worship, and close family friends, just to name a few.

During the summer months, Kids on the Block visits summer camps, day care centers, and other community programs. The puppets talk about keeping a regular schedule during the summer; if children stay on schedule throughout the summer months, it will be easier to transition back when school resumes. We are also still talking and singing about our feelings, and how important it is to share them in a positive way. Remember, keeping up with mental health and wellness strategies is just as important as exercise and eating healthy foods. And, doing so can be a lot more rewarding than practicing multiplication tables!

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What kids are saying about the Kids on the Block:

"I feel like the show was awesome! My favorite part was when you got to ask questions about how to solve the problem. Come again soon please!"

- Fifth Grader, Carver Boys 7 Girls Club

"I like how they solved the problems. I learned how to solve problems without yelling at someone."

- Fourth Grader, Toney Elementary

"I really like the 2 shows y'all did. I really enjoyed myself with the puppet show."

- First Grader, Ivy Preparatory Academy

What the grown-up says:

"The Kids on the Block Program undoubtedly prepares our students with the skills needed to tackle difficult situations, not only during their time in school but throughout life".

- Sarah Haase, Counselor, Stone Mill Elementary School

To schedule a Kids on the Block performance, please contact Lorie at lorie@mhageorgia.org

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT!

Kids on the Block is only one of many programs offered by MHA of Georgia to further our mission of enhancing the mental health of all Georgians through education, outreach and advocacy.

Click here to learn more about our programs. Your support will help us continue our work educating Georgians about mental illness, working to eliminate stigma and advocating on behalf of people with mental illness in our state. Click here to support MHA of Georgia.