Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 – A Guide for Parents and Guardians
Children’s Mental Health Week runs from 9 to 15 February 2026. It is led by the UK children’s charity Place2Be.
The week helps families, schools and communities talk about children’s mental health. It also shares simple ways to help children feel safe, valued and supported.
This year’s theme: “This is My Place”
The theme for 2026 is “This is My Place”. This means helping children feel they belong.
A child’s “place” can be:
- their home
- their school
- their group of friends
- their local community
When children feel they belong, they often feel safer. They may find it easier to talk, learn and try new things.
Why belonging matters
Feeling included helps children:
- build confidence
- manage stress
- form healthy friendships
- feel understood
Small actions at home can make a big difference. Even a short chat or shared activity can help a child feel valued.
Simple ways to support your child
1. Talk about feelings
Let your child know it is okay to talk about how they feel. Listen without judging or rushing to fix things.
Try this tonight: “What made you feel happy today?” or “Was anything hard today?”
2. Use creative play
Drawing, colouring or building can help children share thoughts in a gentle way. Talk together while you create.
Try this: Spend 15 minutes making a picture called “My Place” and ask your child to explain it.
3. Keep calm routines
Regular times for sleep, meals and play help children feel safe. Predictable days can lower worry and stress.
Try this: Pick one evening this week for a screen-free family activity, like a walk, a game or reading together.
4. Encourage kindness
Talk about how it feels to be left out. Help your child notice when others may need support.
Try this: Help your child do one kind act this week, such as sharing a toy or inviting someone to play.
Free family resources
Place2Be offers free activity packs for families. These include simple games, drawing ideas and conversation tips.
Download free Place2Be resources
Where to get extra support
If you are worried about your child, you are not alone. These UK services can help:
- NHS – Children and Young People’s Mental Health Support
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/ - YoungMinds – Parents Helpline (Free: 0808 802 5544)
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/ - NSPCC and Childline (Childline under 18s: 0800 1111)
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/ - Every Mind Matters
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/ - Samaritans (Call 116 123 for support)
https://www.samaritans.org/
When to contact your GP
You may want to speak to your GP if your child:
- seems sad most days
- pulls away from friends or family
- has big changes in sleep or eating
- worries a lot or feels angry often
Book an appointment with your GP team if you notice these signs. We can help you find the right support.