First things first: What is MESH?
MESH stands for mental, emotional, and social health, and is a term coined by ThinkFun in collaboration with Deborah Gilboa, M.D. in 2022. According to meshhelps.org, there are 8 MESH skills that are critical for young learners development. These skills are:
- Self-regulation
- Problem
- Conflict resolution
- Communication strategies
- Adaptation
- Cognition
- Self-advocacy
- Perseverance
So, why is MESH important?
MESH addresses multiple aspects of well-being including mental health, emotional intelligence, social skills, and physical health. This comprehensive approach ensures that young people receive support in all areas necessary for their overall health and happiness.
By focusing on mental, emotional, social, and health development, MESH programs can help prevent issues such as anxiety, depression, social isolation, and physical health problems. Additionally, these programs can provide interventions and support for young people who are already experiencing challenges in these areas.
MESH aim to build resilience, equipping young people with the skills and resources they need to cope with stress, adversity, and setbacks. By fostering resilience, MESH helps develop the ability to bounce back from difficult situations and thrive in the face of challenges.
This holistic approach increases self-awareness and self-care practices that are vital for maintaining good mental and physical health. Through activities such as mindfulness, self-reflection, and stress management techniques, children learn to understand their own emotions, needs, and boundaries, and to take proactive steps to prioritize their well-being.
Here are some of our favorite products that promote MESH:
Make-a-Mandala Paper
With our Make-a-Mandala Paper, people both young and old can tap into their creativity, concentration, and exploration.
This Zen-ful craft promotes mindfulness through the creation of art. Create beautiful geometric patterns as you follow simple line designs. Once you’ve mastered the easy patterns, move to our more challenging designs to create more elaborate patterns. Easy to learn, a lifetime to master!
Fabulous Family Portrait Stencils
With our Fabulous Family Portrait Stencils kids can tap into their emotional, social, and artistic skills!
Kids can trace a family grouping and then color each person in—giving them facial expressions and clothing that represents each person.
We hope that we have helped you to see why being mindful of mental, emotional, and social health (MESH) is so important for young learners. It is never too early to begin developing a healthy and holistic view on life, through both learning and taking care of oneself!
