Child Month Message By Sen. Gloria Thomas Minister Of State With Responsibility For Social Development And Gender Affairs In The Ministry Of Social And Community

Theme: ‘Every Child Matters! See Me! Value Me

PR – Fellow Grenadians, 

In observance of Child Month, we are embarking on in partnership and collaboration with  the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders in celebration of the nation’s children.  

This year’s theme is: ‘Every Child Matters! See Me! Value Me!’ This theme underscores our commitment as a Government to push ahead with the agenda of inclusivity, the promotion  of mental health, and the creation of a supportive environment both at home and in our  schools for our nation’s children. 

In a world that is beautifully diverse, it is crucial that we emphasize inclusivity by embracing our differences. Every child is unique, and it is within this diversity that our strength as a nation lies. We must ensure that no child feels marginalised or excluded because of his/her  background, abilities, or circumstances. 

In this light, we want to recognise our children with special needs. It is important to receive  the support and services in an environment that will enable you to thrive to your optimal potential. The challenges faced daily do not go unnoticed, therefore, it is vital that we, as a  nation, work together to foster an atmosphere where every child feels valued, seen, and  appreciated. 

Mental health is a fundamental aspect of a child’s well-being. We recognise the importance of nurturing not just the physical but also the emotional and mental aspects of our  children’s development. We urge you parents and guardians to be present in your  children’s lives. Help provide a caring, loving, and supportive home and converse with  them daily regarding their feelings and challenges that they may encounter. Children with good mental health are able to think clearly and develop new abilities. The possibilities are  endless. 

Our collaborative efforts this month will address mental health challenges, providing the  necessary support and resources to ensure that our children grow into emotionally resilient and healthy individuals.

Creating a supportive environment at home and in school is paramount for our children’s success. Parents, caregivers, educators, and the broader community must work hand in hand to create safe and nurturing spaces where our children can thrive. It is in these environments  that our children will learn the values of empathy, understanding, and acceptance. 

Our carefully planned activities throughout October are more than just events; they are a  manifestation of our collective determination to champion inclusivity, prioritise mental  health, and cultivate supportive environments. We encourage every citizen to actively  participate in these initiatives, for it is through our combined efforts that we can build a brighter future for our children. 

I extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated partners, hardworking staff and to the people  of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique for working with us. May October be a month  of transformation, where we embrace differences, prioritise mental health, and create a supportive environment that ensures every child knows and understands that he/she is  valued.