To The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND — Haldimand Norfolk REACH Children’s Mental Health Services is excited to announce a week-long series of events to honour Children’s Mental Health Week from May 1 to May 7, 2023.
One of the key events during Children’s Mental Health Week is the Adopt a Support Bear days at the EarlyON Centres. Families are invited to participate in Caledonia on May 3 from 12 to 4 p.m. at 282 Argyle Street South Unit 4, and in Simcoe on May 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 12 Colborne Street North.
These events provide an opportunity for children to adopt a support bear, which can become a comforting companion and a source of emotional support during difficult times for the child.
“We are grateful to the Calendar Club of Canada and their customers for their generous donation of these helpful stuffies,” said Scot Cooper, Manager, Child and Youth Mental Health Services. “Our Bear Adoption Program provides a special opportunity for children to find support in these challenging times.”
In addition to the Adopt a Support Bear days, H-N REACH is also part of the Chalk About It initiative to promote mental health awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental health. Families are encouraged to use sidewalk chalk during the week to create, write, draw, and share positive messages about mental health. This fun and creative activity will help spread awareness and promote positive discussions about mental health within the community.
Furthermore, H-N REACH is proud to announce the opening of the Mental Fitness Family Walking Trail in partnership with Haldimand County and the Toronto Zoo.
Located at 101 Nanticoke Creek Parkway, Townsend, the trail will be open from May 1 to May 31. This trail promotes the concept of green exercise, which combines physical activity with the benefits of spending time in nature.
It also encourages families to practise mental fitness skills, such as mindfulness and a positive mindset, at 11 activities along the way.
While you’re walking the trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as turtles and other critters and scan the QR codes to learn more about them.
H-N REACH is also collaborating with local restaurants throughout Haldimand and Norfolk to provide Mental Fitness Placemats for families.
These placemats will contain fun and interactive activities that promote mental fitness and wellbeing for children and their families. Look for these placemats at participating restaurants and use them as a tool to engage in important conversations about mental health as a family.
Children’s Mental Health Week is a crucial time to raise awareness about the importance of mental health support for children and families.
By participating in the planned events, families can come together to promote positive messages about mental health, practise mental fitness skills, and help end the stigma surrounding mental health.
For more information about Children’s Mental Health Week events or to learn more about H-N REACH’s programs and services, visit our website at hnreach.on.ca or reachoutyouth.ca.
