Unmasking Mental Health: Helping Children Be Seen, Heard, and Supported

May 5th-11th is Mental Health Week in Canada. At Wymbin, we believe that every child deserves to feel safe enough to be themselves. But for many—especially those experiencing worry, stress, or emotional overwhelm—being “real” doesn't feel safe or acceptable. This Mental Health Week, we’re joining the national conversation around Unmasking Mental Health by exploring what it means for kids to let their guard down, and how we as adults can help them feel supported, not shamed, when they do.

What Is Masking in Children?

Just like adults, children often learn to "mask" their true feelings—putting on a brave face when they’re struggling inside. This can look like forced smiles, avoiding eye contact, acting out, or withdrawing completely. Whether it’s anxiety about school, sensory overload, grief, or just having a bad day, many children hide their inner worlds to avoid judgment or feel like they need to “be good” all the time.

Why It Matters to Unmask

Children are incredibly intuitive. They pick up on the emotional cues around them and quickly learn what’s “acceptable” to express. But when we encourage honesty, acknowledge emotions, and create a culture of emotional safety, we allow children to drop the mask. In turn, they gain confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.

How We Practice Unmasking at Wymbin

At Wymbin, unmasking looks like:

• Creating space for kids to name their feelings through mindful movement and yoga

• Encouraging open conversations during circle time and creative expression

• Letting children know that all feelings are welcome—there’s no “bad” emotion

• Teaching simple tools for self-regulation and stress relief

• Modeling emotional vulnerability as educators and caregivers
  

How You Can Support This at Home

• Ask your child how they really feel—and wait for the answer

• Reflect back what you see: “You look frustrated—do you want to talk about it?”

• Share your own feelings in age-appropriate ways to model emotional honesty

• Celebrate courage, not just compliance
  

This Mental Health Week, let’s help our kids feel safe enough to take off the mask. By meeting them with compassion, curiosity, and care, we show them they don’t have to hide who they are to be loved. Because when kids are free to be themselves, they flourish.

You can learn more about Mental Health Week by visiting the official website at: https://cmha.ca/mental-health-week/