A Fresh Start for Spring
Dear Families and Caregivers,
In this edition we will focus on ways to relax, connect, and enjoy the upcoming March Break. As we welcome March, we encourage our students and families to find moments for pause and reflection—whether through rest, creative activities, or spending time outdoors. Taking a pause to rest, play, reflect, or connect can feel challenging amid daily demands. However, even small moments of mindfulness or shared activities can boost well-being. For example, you and your family might consider playing a board game or video game, reading a book, watching T.V., or simply having a meaningful conversation together. Not everyone has plans for March Break which is OK and can be a welcomed slower pace, a change in routine can make it challenging to fill the week. Here are some free activities available in York Region for our students and families: skate at Richmond Hill's Skating Trail, try tobogganing at local hills, explore Sibbald Point or Bruce’s Mill for winter hikes, or enjoy indoor activities.
Supportive Resources
For more community resources, check out: YRDSB Mental Health Resource Page
Continue to check out the YRDSB website for updated information as well as the X account @YRDSB and nstagram @mh_yrdsb.
Community Mental Health Events
Explore a variety of community programs and workshops designed to support mental health and well-bring for students, families, and caregivers.
Students
The Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
- T.E.A.C.H. Mental Health Workshop Series: The YSSI T.E.A.C.H. (Training, Empowerment, Advocacy, Counseling, Help) is an Afrocentric program that offers education on mental health and well-being practices for Black children/youth. The eight-week workshop series is on mental health for Black children/youth in grades 6-8.
- Registration: T.E.A.C.H. Mental Health Workshop Series
Doane House Hospice
- Monthly Art Studio Series: On the first Friday of every month, Doane House Hospice will be hosting a free art-making studio from 2:00pm-4:00pm for individuals navigating significant loss or challenging health circumstances. Participants can create art projects with provided supplies or bring their own. For more information, please contact Doane House Art Therapist Cynthia Gardner at cgardner@myhospice.ca or call 905 967 0259 ext. 155
March Break Art Camp: The Doane House community hospice is offering a free March Break camp for children 7 to 12 who are experiencing grief. Contact cgardner@myhospice.ca or call 905 967 0259 ext. 155 for registration.
Caregivers
Family Services York Region
- Free To Be
- Third Wednesday of Each Month, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
- This is a free virtual group for parents/caregivers of gender diverse children, regardless of age which meets once a month. The goal of this program is to destigmatize gender diversity
Yorkhills Centre for Children, Youth and Families
- March 6th, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Understanding and Managing Challenging Behaviours
- March 19, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Parenting a Child with Attention Deficit Disorder
- March 26, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm - Understanding Online Safety and Youth Exploitation
PFlag
Coffee Night, held every second Monday of the month, is a safe space where members of the LGBTQ2 community, their friends, family or allies can come together. (Online Registration)
This edition of the newsletter was written by the Student Mental Health and Addictions Strategy Implementation Team 2024-2025, inclusive of YRDSB School Social Workers Ruth Damdar, Yen Lee, Peter Reid and Kymani Spence.
Patricia Marra-Stapleton, M.Sc., C. Psych. Assoc.
Mental Health Lead
Paula Vicente M.S.W., R.S.W.
Assistant Coordinator of Mental Health
Kate Phillips M.S.W., R.S.W.
Assistant Coordinator of Mental Health