Healthier Generation Champion Tara Stiles and Healthier Generation Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships Daniel Hatcher
by Daniel W. Hatcher, MPH, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Healthier Generation
Centering the voices, opinions, and needs of youth is an essential strategy to support the mental health and well-being of children. Educators play a critical role in building and sustaining these authentic youth-adult partnerships, especially with historically marginalized youth and those experiencing adversity.
Below, I’ve highlighted two activities from Healthier Generation and our partners that can be easily implemented in your school or organization to enhance student wellness and voice. Both activities can be led or co-led by youth and have minimal cost. Pick one to try and let me know how it goes! Drop me an email at daniel.hatcher@healthiergeneration.org or connect on LinkedIn.
Activity 1: Kindness Award Nomination Cards
What is it?
A free, printable set of cards created by Healthier Generation partners at Graves County Agency for Substance Abuse Policy/Prevention Youth Council in Kentucky. This activity was created by teens for their community in an impactful example of students leading positive change.
How to do it
Print and cut out kindness nomination cards to share at your school or organization to foster belonging and connectedness. Don’t forget to tag @mgcyouthcouncil, @healthiergeneration, and @MentalHealthAm on social!
Why I love it
Celebrating others through kindness nominations is a simple way for even the youngest children to share their voice. Plus, research shows that cultivating gratitude has positive health outcomes, including improving our sleep, strengthening our immune system, and boosting our mood.
Cost: minimal – the nomination cards can be printed in black/gray or screenshot the nomination cards and share them via social media!
Activity 2: Mindful Moments Playlist
What is it?
A free mindfulness and movement video series by Healthier Generation champion Tara Stiles of Strala Yoga.
How to do it
At your next gathering, pick a video from the playlist to do together as a group. My current favorite is Invite the Good Feelings In. After shimmying, swaying and relaxing, reflect on how breathing exercises can support resilience and bring peace to your day.
If you want to keep the good feelings going, explore the Healthier Generation Me Moments Hub: Breathe.
Why I love it
Nadine Burke-Harris says it best, “Scientifically demonstrated strategies, such as practicing mindfulness, meditating, experiencing nature, exercising regularly, and developing healthy relationships can improve outcomes for people who have experienced ACEs [adverse childhood experiences].”
Plus, teaching youth leaders and advocates to harness the power of their breath equips them to feel grounded during stressful situations, like public speaking!
Cost: free!