Mental Health
Find compassionate perspectives and evidence-based strategies to foster school environments that promote psychological well-being and support students experiencing behavioral, emotional, or social challenges.
Some Schools Are Prioritizing More Sleep for Kids. Is It Making a Difference?
Despite public skepticism about changing school start times, evidence from schools that have made the plunge seems clear: It leads to better-rested, more motivated students.940Making Students Feel Safe
A trauma-informed approach ensures that students feel safe, supported, and nurtured—to improve their chances of academic success.129.4kWhen Students Are Traumatized, Teachers Are Too
Trauma in students’ lives takes an emotional and physical toll on teachers as well. Experts weigh in on the best ways to cope.112.9kA Daily Support System for Students
Students who need extra social and emotional support have a quick check-in with an adult at the start and end of each day.89.8kBoys Are Falling Behind. What Can We Do About It?
Boys are underperforming in school, harming their future job prospects and potential for economic mobility. A new book argues it’s the system that needs fixing, not boys.4.5kCovid-19’s Impact on Students’ Academic and Mental Well-Being
The pandemic has revealed—and exacerbated—inequities that hold many students back. Here’s how teachers can help.27.8k60-Second Strategy: Snowball Toss
A quick, fun classroom activity fosters open dialogue while releasing pent-up energy.44.6kA De-escalation Exercise for Upset Students
A simple technique that takes just a few minutes can help an agitated student regain the state of mind needed for learning.24.3kHelping Students Reacclimate to Being With Others All Day
Many students are still a little overwhelmed at being around their peers, though they’re also excited. Some simple strategies can help them adjust to being back in school.10.5kIn High School, the Kids Are Not All Right
With social and academic pressure mounting, a teacher shares what he’s learned about tracking his students’ mental well-being.36.1kThe How and Why of Trauma-Informed Teaching
In an extraordinary Twitter chat, educators discuss building trauma-informed social and emotional learning environments.32.7kDiscussing Disturbing News Stories in the Classroom
Middle and high school teachers can address distressing events in ways that support students and help them process their reactions.234A Comprehensive Approach to Suicide Awareness and Prevention
Schools can develop a thoughtful plan to discuss the topic with students by addressing both risk factors and protective factors of suicide.251Aiming for Discipline Instead of Punishment
Brain-aligned discipline isn’t compliance-driven or punitive—it’s about supporting students in creating sustainable changes in behavior.30.3kAddressing Persistent Defiance
Any student may refuse to cooperate at times, but handling students with oppositional defiant disorder requires that teachers have a plan.26.6k