We are living in unprecedented times with the global pandemic. No one knows what’s going to happen or how long the impacts will last. And if we, as adults, feel a bit helpless and out of control – how are children and young people coping?
Social action – helping other people – has never been as important as now. Not only because there are so many more people and causes that need society’s help, but it also provides purpose, agency and positivity to the participants, which may reduce anxiety levels supporting better mental health.
This activity pack has been created for teachers to use with 8–11 year olds. But if you’re a parent looking for new activities, and/or you wish to use the pack with older or younger children, then please adapt as you see fit.
What’s in the pack?
Children are led through the process of planning and delivering a mini social action project, focused on one of three areas:
Caring for my friends and family
Caring for my community
Caring for my planet
Participants are encouraged to research an issue they’re interested in. They then plan and carry out an activity to address their issue, before evaluating what they’ve done. By the end of the pack the children should feel empowered and positive about themselves and their achievements: recognising that regardless of age or the situation – you can still make a difference to the world around you.