THE IMPACT OF MENTORSHIP

Children and youth who have access to strong mentoring relationships are more likely to report a wide range of social-emotional strengths, have strong mental health and well-being to demonstrate resiliency in the face of stress and trauma; and show signs of increased educational motivation and increased connection to learning.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL COMPETENCE

MENTAL + PHYSICAL HEALTH + WELLBEING THE CHALLENGE: THE CHALLENGE:

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the social-emotional learning of children and youth. Research shows they are experiencing an increased lack of connection and belonging among peers and in their local communities, resulting in slower social and emotional development.

Approximately 1 in 3 Canadian youth report being bullied, which can result in long-lasting emotional effects.

The mental health of children and youth has declined during the pandemic. Stress, anxiety, and depression associated with the interruption to supportive connections and activities has posed extensive mental health challenges for children and youth.

Physical activity and play has deteriorated throughout the pandemic due to school closures and limited extracurricular programs.

THE SOLUTION: Mentorship THE SOLUTION: Mentorship

• Children and youth who have a mentor feel like they belong in their local community.

• Mentored youth are more likely to experience higher levels of self-esteem and confidence, ways to process and express emotions, and higher quality relationships with peers and adults.

• Children and youth who are mentored are less likely to conduct negative behaviours like bullying and fighting, and are less likely to be bullied.

• Mentored youth are 53% more likely to report good mental health than non-mentored youth.

• The addition of a caring adult relationship in the life of a child or youth with mental health needs creates space to talk about struggles and to role model coping strategies and ways to handle stress. These mentoring relationships help youth feel valued, cared for, and important.