Making Sense of Mental Health and Wellbeing in Primary Schools: A Practical Neuroscience-Based Guide

By Dusana Dorjee

Building on the latest research in developmental neuroscience, this book provides an evidence-based, accessible and practical roadmap for those looking for more effective ways to support primary school pupils' mental health and wellbeing.

The guide begins by analysing current approaches before presenting a new, comprehensive framework for mental health and wellbeing curricula in primary schools. Focusing on building up mental health knowledge and key skills of children in a neuroscience-informed and age-appropriate way, the book:

Translates key developmental processes in the mind and brain into learning outcomes, knowledge and skills with focus on Reception stage, KS1, and lower and upper KS2 Lays out a 7-step, trauma-informed pedagogical approach for teaching mental health and wellbeing and provides a plethora of relevant activity examples Looks at the implementation of the curriculum framework as a whole school approach in primary schools, including its positioning within wider social contexts Explains key terms, with case studies and reflection opportunities throughout.

This innovative book is a must-have guide for primary school educators interested in understanding the mental health and wellbeing development of their pupils and finding research-based ways to effectively support them long-term. It is also valuable reading for pastoral leaders in schools, mental health professionals and policy makers.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 104100298X
• ISBN13: 9781041002987
• Release Date: November 2025
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 270 Pages
• Weight: 1.42 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.7" x 9.6"