New book to help educators have discussions about mental health with children

The free resource, entitled ‘Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Sad’, is written by Laura Henry and published by mental health charity Anna Freud.

The book tells the story of three-year-old Jackson and early years teacher Bilal who notices that Jackson, who is normally ‘the fizziest’, whizziest, most giggle, wriggly boy in the world’, is acting differently. The pair then explore his emotions together, with the help of some friends.

It also champions diversity and represents children and an adult from different backgrounds, touching on gender, race and disability, ensuring all children see themselves represented in conversations about mental health.

Along with the story, there is a foreword and guide from experts at Anna Freud to help adults use the resource, including tips to help young children express and make sense of their emotions.

According to the charity, half of mental health conditions start before the age of 14 and many of these develop in the early years, so it is important to have strategies like those I the book to support the wellbeing of young children.

Laura Henry-Allain (pictured right) said, ‘It was an honour and privilege to be asked by Anna Freud to write a children’s fiction book on how to support children from birth to five with their mental health.   

‘I have worked in early years for more than 35 years and know that even our youngest children are beginning to navigate their mental health needs.  

‘My hope is for children to know that their feelings matter and that they can express them freely to adults who understand that it’s never too early to help children with their mental health.’

Dr Abi Miranda, head of early years and prevention at Anna Freud, added, ‘Supporting young children to be mentally healthy is vital for their development and happiness. A key part of this is understanding that being down some days is normal, and we want this unique book to give adults the tools to spark important conversations about sadness and other feelings. 

‘There are lots of misconceptions about young children’s mental health and wellbeing, which we hope to address, including that their feelings are less nuanced. In fact, young children experience a wide range of emotions but may not be able to interpret or describe them all. Their trusted adults can help by, for example, asking lots of questions and using language they can relate to, drawing on things like images, colours and temperatures.  

‘We often hear from early years educators, parents and carers that they would like more training and support on mental health, so we hope this free, easily accessible book can help to close this gap too.’

• The book is available here