Teachers are more than academic facilitators, mentors, role models, and caregivers (remember the movie, Dead Poets Society?). Their words, actions, and approach can either nurture a child’s confidence or unknowingly contribute to their distress. Building a wholesome learning environment begins with empathy and awareness.

Here’s how educators can contribute meaningfully:

Creating safe and non-judgmental spaces

A child who feels safe is more likely to open up, participate, and learn. Teachers can create this sense of safety by listening without judgment, encouraging open dialogue, and validating feelings. A classroom culture where mistakes are treated as part of learning, and differences are respected, helps reduce fear and stress.

Being observant and accessible

Teachers can be trained to identify behavioural changes like withdrawal, aggression, lack of concentration, or absenteeism—that may indicate emotional distress. By being approachable and accessible, they offer a lifeline to children who may be silently struggling.

Promoting inclusivity and belonging

Classrooms must celebrate diversity, whether it’s in learning pace, language, background, or ability. When children feel seen and accepted for who they are, it fosters self-worth. Inclusive practices, such as differentiated learning and equitable participation, ensure that no child feels left out.

Encouraging emotional expression

Activities like storytelling, journaling, art, music, and play provide children safe outlets for expressing feelings. Teachers who incorporate social-emotional learning (SEL) into the curriculum help children build self-awareness, empathy, and coping skills.

Modelling positive behaviour

Children often emulate the adults around them. Teachers who demonstrate patience, kindness, resilience, and respectful communication unknowingly equip their students with the same values.

Collaborating with parents and counsellors

Mental well-being is a shared responsibility. Educators can work alongside parents and school counselors to provide consistent support, ensure early intervention, and build a circle of care around each child.