National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day is coming on May 6, 2010. 
"Awareness Day 2010 will specifically focus on increasing basic awareness of the importance positive mental health has on a child's healthy development, with the key message that 'positive mental health is essential to a child's healthy development from birth."

SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, has planned free events with local schools and childcare providers. Children in preschool through 3rd grade are encouraged to participate in Art Action with parents and teachers around the theme, "My Feelings are a Work of Art." Click on the link for activities and ideas.

Children age 8 and older will participate in "When I Grow Up," an opportunity for them to become aware of mental health issues and to advocate for the mental health needs of young people. Activities include making customizable signs where they can share their thoughts and feelings.

According to SAMHSA, "Research in cost-effectiveness of early interventions indicates that providing appropriate and effective mental health services and supports to young children can result in positive long-term outcomes in areas such as educational attainment, delinquency and crime, and earnings." 

Check the JFS Home Page and our section on Children and Adolescents for regular updates on what you can do to mark the 5th Anniversary of this important day.