As a Teacher, Children's Yoga Instructor and a parent, I would like to see a drastic change in the way we support our children in school.  There isn't enough time dedicated to improving the emotional and social well-being of children as so much of the emphasis is on increased academic achievement, at all costs.  School leaders and Teachers, who care so dearly about the children they work with, are put under an immense amount of pressure to deliver sometimes impossible results, which creates stress and anxiety in our children (and the Teachers caring for them).  Mental health disorders in children are on the rise, with 1 in 9 children aged 5-15 reported to have a mental health disorder, this is an increase mostly due to problems such as depression and anxiety (Mental Health Foundation).

Teachers need more space and time to deliver meaningful, well-planned lessons that are given equal value and prominence to other subjects in schools, such as English and Maths.  Sessions that equip our children with the skills to deal with anger, sadness and loss and those that teach resilience, emotional strength, empathy and making and maintaining positive relationships.  These topics must be taught DAILY and be at the heart of the children's school experience!  To complement this, mindfulness and yoga should form a significant part of the National Curriculum. There is clear, unequivocal evidence to show that it reduces stress and anxiety, develops self-esteem and improves strength, balance, blood flow and brain functioning.  These are the things our children really need to get from their limited time in school.

Please sign and send a clear message to the government.  Change must happen now, our children are depending on us.