Let’s Not Forget the Children This Blue Monday

 

Blue Monday is often described as the most challenging day of the year. Dark mornings, cold weather, post-Christmas fatigue and slipping New Year’s resolutions can all contribute to lower mood and motivation. While much of the conversation focuses on adults, it’s important to remember that children feel the impact too.

At The Firs, we often talk about wellbeing as something that can’t be reduced to a simple formula. A child’s emotional health is influenced by many factors — tiredness, changes in routine, friendships, confidence levels, and how safe they feel to express their emotions. When these things add up, they can affect how children feel, behave and learn.

As Headteacher David Girvan explains:
“Blue Monday is sometimes illustrated as a blackboard full of mathematical equations, but children don’t experience emotions in neat formulas. They experience them in real, human ways. That’s why it’s so important we recognise how seasonal changes, low energy levels and motivation can affect pupils too, and respond with care, understanding and consistency.”

Wellbeing at The Firs

At The Firs, wellbeing isn’t something we focus on for just one day. It’s woven into everyday school life. We support pupils to identify and express their emotions, develop resilience, and build confidence in a nurturing environment that balances academic expectations with emotional support.

Simple but meaningful initiatives — open conversations around feelings, mindfulness moments, strong community connections, and the calming presence of our therapy dog Ziggy — all play a role in helping children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

As Blue Monday 2026 encourages reflection on mental health, we hope it also prompts families, schools and communities to include children fully in the conversation. Supporting young minds today lays the foundations for happier, more resilient adults tomorrow.

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Blue Monday: Wellbeing Tips for Parents

Talk and listen without judgement
Create space for your child to share how they’re feeling — perhaps during the school run, at bedtime, or while doing an activity together. Simple check-ins help children feel heard and supported.

Keep routines steady
After the excitement of Christmas, familiar routines such as regular mealtimes and bedtimes can help children feel secure and settled during darker winter days.

Prioritise daylight and fresh air
A short walk, outdoor play or a trip to the park can lift mood and energy levels, even when the weather feels less inviting.

Celebrate small achievements
Recognising small wins — finishing a book, trying something new, or showing kindness — can make a big difference to confidence and motivation.

Encourage movement and play
From dancing in the kitchen to swimming or free play, physical activity helps children release stress and supports emotional wellbeing.

Build in calm time
Quiet moments such as reading together, drawing or simple mindfulness activities help children unwind and regulate their emotions.

Model balance and self-care
Children learn from what they see. Taking breaks, speaking kindly to yourself, and sharing how you relax helps children develop healthy coping strategies.

Stay connected
Regular time together — cooking, talking, playing or simply being present — reinforces a sense of safety, belonging and emotional security.

A gentle reminder for parents

While these tips focus on supporting children, many apply just as much to parents and carers. Small steps — getting outside, staying connected, and allowing yourself time to pause — can help you feel more balanced and better able to support your child. Looking after yourself is an important part of looking after your family too.

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