INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Children at Independence Primary School enjoyed a special day focused on developing positive mental health.
The fifth Mental Health and Wellness Day was a huge success for the students in kindergarten to fourth grade, where lessons were centered on mindfulness, emotional well-being, and positive mental health practices.
Principal Jodie Hughes shared the importance of giving students intentional time and space to explore emotional wellness. “This day gives our students the chance to explore tools they can use not only in school, but throughout their lives,” said Hughes. “It’s powerful to watch them discover techniques that help them feel centered, supported, and ready to learn.”
She said students remained enthusiastic and fully engaged throughout the day, eagerly participating in each activity and exploring new techniques for taking care of their emotional well-being.
“Our goal is to have conversations about wellness and empower students with simple, practical strategies they can use every day,” said Hughes. “Events like this strengthen our school community and reinforce how important it is to take care of ourselves and one another.”
Hughes said she looks forward to continuing this meaningful tradition as part of the school’s ongoing commitment to supporting the whole child and nurturing a school environment where every student feels valued, seen, and supported.
School Counselor Brooke Gradert emphasized how essential it is to begin teaching mental health skills early. “Teaching our littlest learners about mental health and wellness is one of the most important things we can do,” said Gradert. “When children learn strategies to stay calm, kind, and grounded, they carry those skills with them as they grow – and they become better prepared for whatever life throws their way.”
The children engaged in meaningful opportunities for students to explore strategies that support self-regulation, confidence, and being calm.
Hands-on stations included mindful walking, calming coloring, creating mindful rocks, mindful movements and sound bath, self-awareness with the city of Independence and American Sign Language affirmations led by Independence High School ASL students.
A school statement said it thanked Kurtz Bros for generously donating the rocks used in our Kindness Rocks station. “Their contribution allowed every student to create a meaningful, positive piece of art to take home or leave on our school grounds to spread kindness.”
It added appreciation to the city of Independence for its continued partnership and support. “Their teamwork station continues to be a student favorite and reinforces the value of cooperation, communication, and community connection.”
And thanks was also given to the high school ASL students, taught by Meg Pope. “Their leadership, kindness, and enthusiasm provide powerful role models for our Primary School students and add an invaluable dimension to the event.”
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