Portsmouth children focus on gratitude in bid to boost mental health education

During Children’s Mental Health week, pupils across the area took part in activities to learn about important wellbeing topics.

On February 3, the community was encouraged to get involved with Inside Out Day.

This saw people wearing an item of clothing inside out to show you never really know how someone is feeling on the inside.

It was done to encourage people to check in with loved ones and always be kind.

Jo Morgan, head of pupil wellbeing at Portsmouth Grammar School, said: ‘During Children's Mental Health Week pupils at The Portsmouth Grammar School received remote lessons on resilience, gratitude, and kindness.

‘On Wednesday, all pupils and staff were invited to wear something inside out to their remote lessons as a way of showing solidarity with all those experiencing mental health difficulties.

‘In assembly, we reflected on the importance of seeking help, being a good friend and showing compassion towards others.’

Charla Grant from The Grateful Hearts Club delivered her ‘Hello Gratitude’ workshop to more than 100 children as part of the UK’s first ever mental health festival for schools by Now and Beyond.

Charla, from Southsea, said: ‘It was so lovely to know that the children were able to take some time out to reflect on what they had to be grateful for, even at this tough time they were able to use gratitude to shine a light on what makes them happy.

‘Family, friends and pets were all very popular, but what really amazed me was how many examples of kindness they were able to share, and how they knew the importance of these kind acts to our happiness.’

SEE ALSO: Gosport deputy head runs every day in January for mental health charity

Joss Froggatt from Copnor took part in one of Charla’s workshops. The five-year-old said: ‘I really enjoyed learning how special it is to say thank you. I’ve got my own gratitude torch now and like to shine it on things that make me happy.’

Harlow Casey from Portchester added: ‘Charla’s workshop helped me think about all the things I love and I’m happy to have, like my bike and family.

‘Afterwards I sent a note to my teacher telling them I think they are doing a really good job.’

Visit nowandbeyond.org.uk for more information.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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