By Shari Shapiro
As parents, educators, and community members, we all share a common goal: to help our children thrive. While much of the conversation about youth mental health focuses on teenagers, we shouldn’t overlook the youngest members of our community— our elementary school students. In fact, the early years are a critical period for developing healthy coping mechanisms, emotional resilience, and a sense of security.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the mental health of young children has been a growing concern. A 2024 survey revealed that 64% of parents of elementary school children are concerned their child isn’t reaching their full potential, with 85% noticing alarming signs related to their child’s emotional well-being monthly. Think about the unique opportunity that schools provide for early intervention. Studies show that youth are six times more likely to complete mental health treatment in school settings than in community clinics. Plus, school-based services reduce barriers like transportation and stigma.
At Kids In Crisis, we know that programs integrated into academic instruction are particularly effective, because they line up with students’ daily routines and environments. At K ids In Crisis, we are meeting these needs head-on through our KidTalk program, which places master’s level mental health counselors directly in elementary schools. These counselors offer on-site, accessible mental health support, this allows young children to receive help in a familiar and safe environment. The impact of having a trusted adult available to listen and guide children through their emotions cannot be overstated. Early intervention helps children’s current wellbeing and it also builds a foundation that leads to healthier relationships and better academic success throughout their lives.
On top of that, Kids In Crisis provides access to mental health care during non-school hours, weekends, and vacation periods is critical. This coverage is so important for crisis intervention and followup support, especially during vulnerable times when school-based resources are unavailable. Through our 24/7 helpline and the new texting helpline launching this year, we provide a dedicated professional team to handle all incoming calls and texts, making sure that support is always just a message away.
Our pilot program at Hamilton Avenue Elementary School in Greenwich has already shown remarkable success. Children as young as five and six years old are learning how to express their feelings, manage anxiety, and build healthy coping skills. Much of what we do in the elementary school setting involves partnering with parents to reinforce these skills at home, somewhat different from our approach in high schools. For many, simply having someone to talk to makes all the difference. Our counselors share heartwarming stories of young students who have transformed from feeling isolated and overwhelmed to becoming more confident and engaged in their learning.
This past week, we hosted our annual Gala at The Loading Dock we called it an Après Ski Soirée, where our generous community came together to support our mission. Thanks to the incredible support of everyone who attended, we reached our fundraising goal and are so excited to announce that we will be expanding the KidTalk program to a second elementary school. This expansion will allow us to provide even more children with the critical mental health support they need during their formative years.
One of the most inspiring moments of the night was hearing from counselors and educators who witness firsthand the incredible impact of KidTalk. They shared stories of children who have learned to manage big feelings and get through challenging situations.
Our goal is to create safe spaces where children feel heard, valued, and supported. When we reach children early, we can guide them on a path of emotional well-being that will help them for years to come. And while the statistics about youth mental health can be daunting, there is hope—because every child who receives support today is one step closer to a brighter, healthier tomorrow.
For families needing support outside of school hours, Kids In Crisis offers a 24/7 helpline (203-661-1911), making sure that no child or parent has to face challenges alone. I encourage anyone in need to reach out—whether it’s a big problem or a small one, sometimes just talking to someone can make all the difference.
Together, we are creating lasting change and building a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive emotionally, academically, and socially. Thank you to everyone who has joined us on this journey—we couldn’t do it without you.
Shari L Shapiro is the Executive DIrector of Kids In Crisis. Kids In Crisis provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and community education programs for children of all ages and families facing crisis. Since its founding in 1978, Kids In Crisis has provided vital 24-hour services to more than 170,000 children and teens, and their families. Providers, educators, community members, and family members are encouraged to call the 24-hour helpline at 203-661-1911 for support.
