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Back-to-school can be a challenging time for many children, youth, and families. We know parents and caregivers have experienced unprecedented stress over the last few years, and many are worried about their kids’ mental wellness.

To help, Children’s Mental Health Ontario (CMHO) has updated our School Mental Health Backpack. We want to empower families who are concerned about their child’s mental health and help you find further mental health supports if you need them.

Inside the School Mental Health Backpack

Resources and tips to support your child’s mental health in school

Summer Ready

Get a head start on helping your child get ready for school.

Back-to-School Tips

Back-to-school tips for child and youth mental health.

6 Tips to Support Mental Wellness

More tips to support mental wellness at school.

Acknowledge the Challenge

Recognize what challenges you may face this year.

Communicate

Talk with your child about back-to-school.

School Relationships

Tips for encouraging and supporting friendships.

Communicate With The Teacher

Help your child communicate their needs to their teacher.

School Avoidance

Resources to help when your child doesn’t want to go.

READ MORE

More resources to help parents and caregivers

Ask an expert

Do you have questions about mental health and back-to-school?

We welcome you to ask one of our child and youth mental health experts a question.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone.

If you are a parent/caregiver worried about your child, or a young person looking for help yourself – please reach out. Our network of child and youth mental health centres has 4,000 professionals ready to help children, youth and families with free counselling and treatment. We provide care in person, on the phone and virtually. No problem is too big or small.

Find your closest child and youth mental health centre.