May 2025 Issue of The Whistler
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. At Reach-Up Head Start, we recognize that mental health is important—even for our youngest learners!
Why It Matters 💚 Just as we teach kids to brush their teeth or eat their vegetables, we can also teach them how to take care of their hearts and minds. Talking about feelings early helps kids build confidence, manage stress, and form strong relationships.
Simple Ways to Support at Home 🏡
✔️ Design a Cozy Corner: Set up a small, peaceful spot with a blanket, favorite books, or sensory items to support your child’s emotional regulation.
✔️ Family Breathing Moments: Practice “5-Finger Breathing” together before meals or bedtime for a calming reset.
✔️Routines Build Resilience: Regular mealtimes and bedtime routines help children feel safe and emotionally grounded.
✔️Mental Health Conversation Starters
“What was something that made you feel happy or sad today?”
“Was there a moment this week that helped you feel calm?”
“What do you usually do when you’re upset? What else might help next time?”
✔️Hands-On Family Activity
Make a Calming Jar: Share a simple glitter jar craft that families can make together—perfect for soothing moments and connection.
Breathing Pinwheels: Offer a printable version or host a hands-on workshop for families to create one together.
✔️Family Affirmation of the Month
“We are a team. We help each other grow, even on the tough days.”
Let’s work together to build a future where our children grow up knowing it’s okay to talk about mental health.
Health and Wellness Resources
Reach-Up Head Start has our very own Virtual Wellness Room. This is a space for staff, families, and our Reach-Up community to find tools, strategies, and resources to help manage overall wellness.
Reach-Up Head Start also maintains a Mental Health Blog that features a variety of resources for the whole family.
Featured Staff
Important Dates
Classrooms (NO SCHOOL) and Office Closed – Monday, May 5th and Monday, May 26th
Resources
Sign Up for the Imagination Library here.
Crisis Nursery Fundraiser Coupons, click here.
If you know of families or friends who are interested in Head Start programs have them apply here, Reach-Up is accepting applications for the 2025-26 program year!