The Importance of Early Years’ Mental Wellbeing
At Devonshire House, a leading independent school in Hampstead, we know that a child’s emotional wellbeing is just as important as their academic development. In our Nursery and Reception classes, we place a strong emphasis on helping children build resilience, confidence, and a healthy sense of self.
Supporting Wellbeing in the Classroom
Miss Pleurita Jusufi, our Reception teacher, brings both professional expertise and personal passion to Early Years education. With a degree focused on mental health, she integrates practices such as mindfulness exercises, reflection, and open discussions into everyday learning. These simple but effective activities help children feel safe, valued, and ready to explore their emotions freely.
Psychologists such as Erik Erikson and Donald Winnicott have long highlighted the importance of these early years. Erikson emphasised the role of trust in a child’s development, while Winnicott stressed the value of nurturing environments in shaping emotional wellbeing. At Devonshire House, these principles are central to how we approach our Early Years teaching.
Partnering with Parents
Parents and carers are vital partners in this journey. There are many small but powerful ways families can support their child’s mental health at home, including:
- Open communication – Encourage children to share their feelings, thoughts, and daily experiences.
- Mindful moments – Introduce short relaxation or breathing exercises to help children develop calm and focus.
- Quality time – Spend one-on-one time engaging in activities your child enjoys, building security and self-esteem.
Together, these approaches create a strong foundation for learning and personal growth.
Building Resilience for the Future
By prioritising mental health in the Early Years, we prepare children not just for school, but for life. Pupils in our Nursery School and Prep School benefit from
an environment that celebrates curiosity, empathy, and independence.
This holistic approach is one of the reasons why families looking for the best schools in North London choose
Devonshire House. By nurturing both minds and hearts, we ensure our youngest learners have the resilience and confidence to thrive in the
years ahead.