Rainbow students learn strategies for stress and success

Grade 1 and 6 students in Rainbow Schools are learning strategies for stress and success. Since September, they have been engaged in Kids Have Stress Too! ®, a program that aims to positively influence social and emotional development.

Established by The Psychology Foundation of Canada, Kids Have Stress Too! ® helps parents/guardians, caregivers and educators better understand childhood stress, and offers tools to children to help them cope effectively.

“Research tells us that stress among children is estimated to have increased 45 per cent over the past 30 years,” says Mary Jago, Mental Health Lead with Rainbow District School Board. “Stress can affect a child’s ability to get along with others, think intuitively, and learn.” She adds: “By building resiliency and emotional health, children can concentrate better inside and outside of the classroom.”

Kids Have Stress Too! ® is being delivered by Rainbow District School Board’s mental health team in six-week blocks. Students engage in a series of skill-based activities and lessons that range from five to 50 minutes.

Teachers, who are involved in the program as learners, are taught a variety of ways to create a peaceful, safe and stimulating classroom environment, while delivering the curriculum.

“The Kids Have Stress Too! ® program is one of many ways in which the Board is fulfilling its commitment to enhance the mental health and well-being of students and staff,” says Norm Blaseg, Director of Education for Rainbow District School Board.

Rainbow District School Board adopted its first Mental Health Strategic Plan in September 2018. The plan guides the Board’s work by embedding student mental health policy within its strategic planning; raising awareness to decrease stigma and increase the capacity to recognize the signs of mental health problems early and how to access the appropriate intervention; and implementing evidence informed promotion, prevention, and intervention mental health services to promote mentally healthy classrooms.

To access the Mental Health Strategic Plan, click here:

Mental Health and Well-Being

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217.