In today’s world, mental health and behavioral disorders are impacting an increasing number of children. According to CDC statistics, approximately 1 in 7 children between the ages of 2 and 8 have been diagnosed with a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder (MBDD). This figure only accounts for those children who have received formal diagnoses.
MBDDs are particularly common among boys, non-Hispanic white children, those aged 6 to 8, and children living in poverty. However, these issues can impact any child, underscoring the need for collective efforts to provide necessary resources, coping strategies, and emotional support.
You might assume that schools, where children spend a significant portion of their time, would prioritize these challenges. While many educators certainly do, there are questions about whether enough is being done to support students’ socio-emotional health. Why aren’t mental health issues integrated into the curriculum with the same emphasis as subjects like math and reading? Teaching children to be compassionate and cooperative members of society deserves equal attention.
Meet Jamie Treadwell
One educator, Jamie Treadwell, who has dedicated 15 years to teaching kindergarten at Maplewood Elementary School in Springfield, Illinois, strongly advocates for this cause. In a recent impactful social media post, Treadwell expressed her desire for her students to thrive not just academically, but also as individuals, detailing her approach to supporting their mental well-being alongside their studies.
Treadwell shared her concerns, writing, “I have been losing sleep over the current state of our schools. My social media is flooded with news about school safety, gun control, and sadly, school shootings. It’s disheartening to see blame being tossed between parents and educators. I refuse to participate in that debate.”
Focus on Mental Health
So what does Treadwell believe should be the focus? She emphasizes the importance of meaningful conversations and actions that educators can take to address mental health. “I mold young minds,” she states. “I am often their first experience outside the home. I strive to make school a welcoming environment where learning is enjoyable. My students become like my own children.”
Treadwell is deeply invested in her students’ well-being, greeting them each morning with warmth and affection, understanding that for some, her embrace may be the only love they receive throughout the day. She ensures that children who come to school hungry receive snacks, and provides clothing for those in need.
These small gestures can significantly impact the lives of her students and are as essential as teaching literacy and numeracy. “Throughout my career, I’ve encountered children who have faced abuse, neglect, and loss, including those who have lost parents to illness or even suicide,” she notes. “Many of my students grapple with mental health challenges themselves, with some needing weekly counseling for anxiety.”
Treadwell recognizes that while love and attention are crucial, schools must implement structured programs that focus on mental health. Frustrated by the lack of action in this area, she decided to take matters into her own hands.
Taking Action
Last year, she successfully obtained a grant to launch an afterschool yoga and mindfulness program, which over 100 children attended. “This was just the beginning of my mission for change,” Treadwell asserts.
She is now determined to spearhead a movement that prioritizes mental health education in schools. “Skills such as self-management, social awareness, and respect should be integral to our curriculum,” she explains. “Unfortunately, budget constraints often push these priorities aside.”
In her post, she introduced a mental health reading list designed to lay the foundation for an awareness curriculum targeted at young children. This list, shared via an Amazon Wish List, includes books addressing topics like divorce, grief, parental incarceration, and fostering friendships.
By promoting open discussions about these real-life issues, Treadwell hopes to make a lasting impact. She has reported that not only has her wish list been fulfilled for her own school, but it has gained traction, inspiring other educators and institutions to adopt similar initiatives.
“It’s inspiring to see others utilize my reading list to ignite their own movements,” Treadwell stated. “I’ve received positive feedback from teachers and parents eager to support their children’s mental health. I am honored to be part of this growing effort.”
The Importance of Advocacy
Educators like Treadwell are essential for initiating crucial conversations about mental and emotional well-being. As we navigate these challenging times, it’s imperative that we continue to nurture the mental health of our children. It is heartening to witness educators taking proactive steps to address this vital issue.
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Conclusion
In summary, Jamie Treadwell’s commitment to her students’ mental health exemplifies the proactive approach educators can take. By fostering a supportive environment and advocating for mental health education, she not only uplifts her classroom but also inspires a broader movement toward mental health awareness in schools.
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