On this International Youth Day, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH) is highlighting the importance of supporting children and youth as families across Windsor-Essex prepare for the return to school.
Held annually on August 12, International Youth Day recognizes the contributions of young people and draws attention to issues that affect their well-being and future. This year, as students prepare to return to classrooms, HDGH is reminding parents and caregivers that back-to-school preparation goes beyond school supplies and schedules — it is also an important opportunity to check in on children’s mental health and emotional well-being.
“For children and youth, this transition can bring a wide range of emotions. Some kids can’t wait to see their friends and teachers again, while others may feel nervous about entering a new classroom, starting at a new school, or adjusting to a new schedule. All of these feelings are completely normal,” said Patrick Kolowicz, Director of the Regional Children’s Centre (RCC).
Parents and caregivers can support children through this transition by starting a simple conversation about how they are feeling about the upcoming school year. Listening to children’s concerns, celebrating what they are looking forward to and reminding them that it is okay to ask for help can make a meaningful difference.
Resources & Services to Help You Navigate
HDGH’s Regional Children’s Centre is an accredited children’s mental health centre that serves as the front door for child and youth mental health services across Windsor-Essex. As the designated Lead Agency for Child and Youth Mental Health in the region, the RCC also works with community partners to support effective planning and delivery of mental health services for children, youth and their families.
Through this partnership, WEConnectKids, a free program, was created to help children, youth, and their families connect with the most appropriate services based on their unique needs, whether they are looking for early support, counselling, developmental services, or simply guidance on where to begin.
“Starting a new school year can be an important time for families,” said Lori Kempe, Executive Lead for Child and Youth Mental Health and Lead Agency. “If a child or youth is experiencing challenges, families don’t have to wait until things become overwhelming to seek support. There are resources available in our community to help families find the right support for their needs.”
The WEConnectKids online Program Directory is another easy way for youth, parents and caregivers to search for mental health, developmental and family support services throughout Windsor-Essex.
Another resource available to families is ParentLink, which provides workshops, educational sessions and parenting resources on topics including positive parenting, child development, anxiety, resilience and preparing children for important milestones such as starting school.
“Every child and family deserves to know that support is available,” says Kolowicz. “Taking time to check in, listen and connect with resources can help make the transition into a new school year a positive one.”
Families can learn more and explore available resources by visiting the Regional Children’s Centre, ParentLink and WEConnectKids websites, calling 519-257-5437 (KIDS), or walk-in during office hours (Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.) to 3901 Connaught St. in Windsor, Ontario.