Glasgow primary teacher, Kate McGarrity, has raised over £1,600 for the PATHS Programme for Schools, which supports children in developing self-regulation skills and raising awareness of their feelings. McGarrity’s efforts highlight the increasing need for mental health support among primary school-aged children, who are experiencing poor mental health episodes and going unsupported in the local area. This lack of support can lead to lifelong consequences, including unhealthy choices and difficulties in regulating emotions. McGarrity’s fundraising event aimed to address these challenges and promote social-emotional learning and wellbeing among children.
H2 Glasgow Primary Teacher Raises Funds to Support Children’s Mental Health
Introduction:
Kate McGarrity, a primary school teacher at Riverbank Primary in Dalmarnock, Glasgow, recently organized a successful fundraiser to support the PATHS Programme for Schools. The event, held at Goals in Shawlands, raised over £1,600 through a quiz and raffle with luxurious prizes. The funds will be used to provide mental health support for primary school-aged children who are currently not receiving the assistance they require.
The Need for Mental Health Support:
McGarrity emphasized the urgent need for mental health support among primary school-aged children in the local area. Many children are experiencing poor mental health episodes for various reasons, and unfortunately, they are not receiving the necessary support. This lack of assistance can lead to a downward spiral of unhealthy choices and difficulties in regulating emotions, which can have long-lasting consequences.
Challenges in Emotional Regulation:
In schools, educators are witnessing a significant struggle among children when it comes to emotional regulation. Outbursts, extreme worry, sadness, and anger have become regular occurrences in school life. McGarrity highlighted the importance of addressing these challenges and providing children with the tools to manage their emotions effectively.
The PATHS Programme for Schools:
McGarrity teaches the PATHS Programme, which aims to be proactive in promoting social-emotional learning and wellbeing among children. The program, run by children’s charity Barnardo’s, focuses on helping children recognize, manage, and regulate their emotions, ultimately building stronger mental health and resilience.
Decrease in Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem:
Another concerning trend observed by McGarrity is a dramatic decrease in child self-confidence and self-esteem. Many children express feelings of incapability and inadequacy. This decline in self-belief is believed to have been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic. McGarrity, with a background in psychology, expressed deep concern about the increasing need for mental health support among children.
Looking Ahead:
If the current trends continue, without the right support, McGarrity worries about the long-term consequences for the next generation of adults. It is crucial to address the mental health challenges faced by primary school-aged children and provide them with the necessary support to navigate their emotions and build resilience.
Conclusion:
Kate McGarrity’s fundraising efforts highlight the pressing need for mental health support among primary school-aged children in Glasgow. The funds raised will contribute to the PATHS Programme for Schools, which aims to raise awareness of children’s feelings and develop their self-regulation skills. By addressing emotional regulation challenges and promoting social-emotional learning, educators and organizations like Barnardo’s can help children build stronger mental health and resilience for the future.
