Recently Medicine Hat Public School Division trustees were provided a presentation of the success of the HUG and My Place programming, which offers all students universal mental health support as well as free activities outside the classroom.--HANDOUT PHOTO
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Members of the Medicine Hat Public School Division’s mental health capacity building, known as HUG and My Place programs, provided a presentation to trustees earlier this month.
During the Jan. 13 public meeting, trustees learned about the universal mental health programming offered to available for students.
The HUG and MyPlace programs encourage students through hands-on activities designed to help students calm their bodies and get back on track.
The programs have been in operation since 2007, with seven team members throughout MHPSD’s 16 schools.
Team members shared come with a range of backgrounds, including nursing, social work, psychology and childcare, and they spoke about collaboration with teachers to help kids navigate tricky moments on the playground and in the classroom.
The team also helps students improve their nutrition and digital citizenship, and encourages making friends as well as offering lunch and after-school activities.
The programs also provide opportunities for middle and senior students to join wellness fairs and leadership opportunities.
Throughout the summer both HUG and My Place offer a variety of day camps, teen hangouts and large family friendly events to keep them busy and learning over the break.
“These events create easy and free spaces for families to meet new people, discover local support and to have fun together,” reads a press release. “During the school year many kids rely on the structure and support they get at school, and summer programming helps to bridge the gap.”
According to team members, feedback has been overwhelming as several parents praised the no-cost programming over the summer, saying it allowed their children to learn, play and build confidence.
The programs partnered with more than 25 different agencies last year to host some of the larger community events.
