FamilySmart established May 7 as a day to show how small moments of care make a big difference. As part of National Child & Youth Mental Health Day, this day reminds us that when young people feel seen, heard, and supported, their mental health improves.
May 7th
National Child & Youth Mental Health Day:
I Care About You
National Child & Youth Mental Health Day is about creating meaningful connections between young people and the caring adults in their lives. Even the smallest moments—checking in, listening, or simply showing up—can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental health. “I Care About You” is at the heart of May 7, reminding us that through conversations, support, and everyday actions, we can help young people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Join us in showing you care—because a moment of connection can change a life.
Online Event
Join us for a special online event to celebrate National Child & Youth Mental Health Day. This year we are partnering with the BC School Counsellors Association for a caring conversation that shares experiences, insights and practical ways to support the mental health of children and youth.
When Our Children Hurt Inside: Nurturing Awareness and the Power of Relationships
Thursday, May 7, 2026
6:30pm – 8:00pm (PST)
Younger children can experience emotional pain that they don’t yet have the words to describe. Sometimes this shows up as statements about not wanting to be here or behaviours that look like self‑harm. This gentle, supportive session may help parents and caregivers understand why these moments happen, what they may mean, and how to respond with calm connection. Together we’ll explore how small moments of being seen, heard, and supported can make a big difference in a child’s safety and well‑being.
This webinar offers a compassionate look at how children under 12 experience and express deep distress—including suicidal thoughts or self‑injury behaviours, and keeping connection at the centre. The emphasis throughout is on hope, relationship, and simple moments of caring presence.
Meet our Speaker: Katie DeReus
Katie DeReus is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 20 years of experience as both a teacher and an Elementary School Counsellor. In her role as Vice President of Professional Development for the BC School Counsellors Association, Katie champions greater awareness and understanding of the struggles faced by children under 12 – not only as a professional immersed in their day-to-day challenges, but as a parent living them as well.
Tools & Resources to Support Caring Conversations
Caring connections can make a difference in a young person’s life. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or community member, these free resources help you start conversations, build understanding, and create supportive spaces where kids and youth feel heard and valued.
Say, Don’t Say Cards
Tool
Building Caring Conversations
VIDEO
Colour with us
Activity
Your Amazing Body
Activity
Why May 7 Matters
FamilySmart started May 7 to spark meaningful conversations about youth mental health and to show that small moments of care and connection can have a lasting impact. When young people feel seen, heard, and supported, their mental health improves. May 7 is more than a single day—it’s a reminder to make caring conversations part of everyday life. Families, schools, and communities can use these tools and resources to help create spaces where kids and youth know they are cared for, and that their mental health matters.
Connecting With Kids and Youth
Caring, connected relationships have a big impact on a young person’s mental health. We asked youth, “How would you like adults to talk to you about your mental health?”
Here’s what they told us:
“I’m not looking for a solution—I just want someone to understand how I feel. When I’m struggling, the last thing I need is to be blamed when I already feel like I have no control.”
“It’s important that you try to understand my feelings and ask questions without pushing me. That helps me feel supported and reminds me that I’m not alone.”