Healthier Generation Champion Tara Stiles and Healthier Generation Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships Daniel Hatcher.
by Daniel W. Hatcher, MPH, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Healthier Generation
Centering the voices, opinions and needs of young people is an essential strategy to support children’s mental health and well-being. Educators play a critical role in building and maintaining these authentic partnerships between youth and adults, especially with historically marginalized youth and those experiencing adversity.
Below, I highlight two activities from Healthier Generation and our partners that can be easily implemented in your school or organization to improve student well-being and voice. Both activities can be led or co-led by young people and have a minimal cost. Pick one to try and let me know how it goes! Email me at daniel.hatcher@healthiergeneration.org or connect on LinkedIn.
Activity 1: Kindness Award Nomination Cards
What is it?
TO free printable card game created by Healthier Generation partners in Graves County Substance Abuse Policy Agency/Youth Prevention Council in kentucky. This activity was created by teens for their community in a powerful example of students leading positive change.
how to do it
Print and cut out kindness nomination cards to share at your school or organization to foster belonging and connection. Don’t forget to tag @mgcyouthcouncil, @healthiergeneration and @MentalHealthAm on social media!
because I love it
Celebrating others through kindness nominations is a simple way for even the youngest children to share their voice. Furthermore, research shows that cultivating gratitude has positive health resultsincluding improving our sleep, strengthening our immune system, and improving our mood.
Cost: Minimal – Nomination cards can be printed in black/grey or screenshot of nomination cards and shared via social media.
Activity 2: Mindful Moments Playlist
What is it?
A free video series on mindfulness and movement by Healthier Generation Champion, Tara Stiles of Strala Yoga.
how to do it
At your next meeting, choose a video from the playlist to watch together as a group. My current favorite is Invite the good feelings in. After you sway, sway, and relax, reflect on how breathing exercises can foster resilience and bring peace to your day.
If you want to keep the good feelings going, explore the Healthier Generation Me Moment Center: Breathe.
because I love it
Nadine Burke-Harris says it best“Scientifically proven strategies, such as practicing mindfulness, meditating, experiencing nature, exercising regularly, and developing healthy relationships, can improve outcomes for people who have experienced ACEs. [adverse childhood experiences].”
Plus, teaching youth leaders and advocates to harness the power of the breath prepares them to feel grounded during stressful situations, like public speaking!
Cost: free!
