Today’s K–12 students are facing rising levels of anxiety and depression, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. Add in the pressures of social media and screen time, and it’s clear that educators need to address these social-emotional challenges more than ever.
In his book, The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt advocates for schools to reduce screen time and encourage playful learning. As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, many teachers are exploring ways to enhance students’ emotional well-being through literacy.
Take Charlotte Webb, a kindergarten teacher in Tucson. In her classroom, she focuses on building friendships and kindness. “My students are Covid babies,” she explains. Many missed out on typical social experiences, leading to challenges in making friends.
To help, Webb uses a range of social-emotional learning (SEL) book resources, like The Rabbit Listened by Corie Doerrfeld. “We discuss the positive choices characters make and role-play these scenarios, even on the playground,” she says. This hands-on approach is vital, especially for her more assertive students who may influence others negatively.
Webb also implements “circle time,” where students can share their thoughts and feelings. “When everyone participates, it fosters a sense of belonging,” she notes. Recently, she has collaborated with the school counselor to teach students how to manage their emotions through books like A Little SPOT of Feelings: Emotion Detective by Diane Alber. Together, they promote character traits like cooperation and courage, sending newsletters to keep parents involved.
In Bothell, Washington, Mie-Mie Wu, the children’s librarian, started an outreach program called the KCLS Mock Newbery. This initiative invites students to read and discuss award-winning books. “While it’s not focused on mental health, many books naturally bring these issues to light,” Wu explains.
Last year’s reading list included titles that explore human challenges. Wu believes these stories allow kids to see their experiences reflected in literature. “Literature can help them feel less alone and provide coping strategies,” she explains. For instance, after reading The Strongest Heart by Saadia Faruqi, students engaged in a Zoom call with the author, deepening their understanding of the characters’ struggles.
Matthew C. Winner, a media specialist in Maryland, emphasizes the importance of a supportive environment. His goal is to create a space where students feel loved and understood. “Students need to know that I care about them daily,” he says. He connects with kids on personal matters, whether it’s new siblings or loss.
In his approach to teaching SEL concepts, Winner encourages discussions around characters’ feelings and personal connections. He frequently checks in with students about their emotional readiness to learn. “If something’s bothering them, I want them to feel safe to express it,” he states.
This year, he’s collaborating with community members to introduce lessons on inclusive questioning techniques, ensuring all students feel valued. For Winner, the urgency to support students’ emotional health is paramount. “Our kids are growing up so fast. We must equip them with the tools they need now,” he asserts.
As schools across the nation adapt to these challenges, the focus on students’ social and emotional well-being is vital. Educators are pioneering thoughtful approaches that not only support academic growth but also nurture resilience and kindness in the next generation.
For a deeper understanding of the current mental health crisis among students, consider reviewing the National Center for Education Statistics’ recent findings here.
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Mental Health Awareness Month, literacy, educators, librarians, children
