The Theory
The KidsMatter Initiative is aiming to strengthen those factors that protect students from developing mental health problems. Some of these factors reside within the student (eg. being socially and emotionally competent), some occur within the school context (eg. having a school climate where students feel safe, that they belong, and have opportunities to experience success) and some reside within the family context (eg. having supportive and caring relationships with parent/s, family and community). It is particularly important to strengthen these protective factors in students who are at risk or who are experiencing mental health problems.
We know that:
- Protective factors for student mental health can be enhanced
- Early signs of mental health problems can be detected in young children
- Mental health problems are easier (and more effective) to treat at an earlier age before problems become entrenched
To improve the mental health and wellbeing of their students, KidsMatter schools will focus on four key components over two years.
These are:
- A Positive School Community
- Schools identify how they can enhance their school climate to support student mental health and well-being, giving particular emphasis to ensuring that students, staff and parents feel 'connected' to each other and the broader school community.
- Social and Emotional Learning for Students
- Students receive social and emotional curriculum using evidence-based programs to improve their self-awareness, social-awareness, self-management, relationship skills and their capacity for responsible decision-making.
- Parenting Education and Support - Parents and families receive opportunities to access information on child development and parenting, as well as engage with other parents and families.
- Early Intervention for students at risk or experiencing mental health difficulties
- School staff and parents receive information on strategies to support and assist children at risk of or experiencing mental health problems. This includes information on detecting signs of mental health difficulties in young children, information on local service providers and how to access evidence-based programs and interventions.