It is never too early to consider children’s mental health. Parents play a crucial role in guiding the development of their child’s self-confidence and emotional strength and balance. But, as they say, children don’t come with a manual. And parents can’t always recall how they felt and thought when they were children.

Here, you’ll find helpful information on how to help and support children who are exhibiting difficult behaviour or going through a family break-up. Also addressed is the importance of self esteem and ways in which parents can nurture it in their children. We also offer tips and techniques for helping children overcome irrational fears, and teach them the very real need to protect themselves.

CMHA recently collaborated with the Hinks-Dellcrest Centre in Toronto on our Early Childhood Care and Mental Health Project, which examined how Canadian child care centres can promote the mental health of children from infancy to 6 years. Resources from this project include a booklet for child care providers and a report for early childhood professionals and policy makers (coming soon!).