According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, between 15% and 25% of our children and youth suffer at least one mental health problem or illness.
On Friday, May 26, Virden Junior High hosted a Wellness Afternoon for students and staff. This initiative was supported by and funded by our Fort la Bosse School Division’s Mind Your Health Committee.
Our afternoon began with all students and staff in the gym to kick off our event with keynote speaker, Mr. Mark Keown. The 250 students and staff broke into 4 multi-age groups and rotated through stations including yoga, line dancing, guided relaxation and coloring. While coloring, the students sipped on a healthy smoothie. It was wonderful to watch the staff and students, Grades 5-8, mix and mingle with each other to strengthen our school community. We concluded the afternoon in the gym practicing our newly acquired “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” skills.
The purpose of the sessions was to teach and encourage our students to use relaxation techniques, recreational activities and healthy food to aid in dealing with the stresses in their lives.
During the afternoon, we also unveiled our new “Relaxation Room”. This is a private room in our building which is furnished with comfy pillows, a calming fountain, peaceful music, and restful activities such as drawing and coloring.
We appreciate the Virden Junior High Student Council for their monetary donation to our Relaxation Room. Grtitude also to Chloe Hayward- line dancing instructor, Kim Houston-yoga instructor, the volunteers who helped prepare the healthy snack, and to Wayne Rudneski of White Owl Service for donating glasses and straws.
Students participate in yoga class with Kim Houston at VJH on May 26.
VJH students have fun at the photo booth during their wellness afternoon on May 26.
