New online tool, spring break ideas, and more!

School closures and COVID-19: Interactive Tool

New tool provides insights into the impacts of COVID-19 on kids

We are excited to announce that Statistics Canada, in partnership with Children First Canada (CFC), has released an interactive online tool to help Canadians understand the impact of school closures on children and youth.

The tool includes interactive maps that identify the location of vulnerable communities and provides policy makers, industry leaders, teachers and parents with a single point of access to Statistics Canada data about this topic.

"Children First Canada was honoured to be invited by Statistics Canada to partner on this project. The development of this new tool was a collaborative effort to harness data on the health and well-being of children in Canada, to inform policy making and programs to mitigate the impact of school closures on kids," says Sara Austin, CFC's founder and CEO. "Throughout the pandemic, children and youth have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 restrictions, threatening their academic success, mental health, protection from violence, and food security. Our hope is that this new tool will help lift the burden of the pandemic off children."

Click the button below to access the interactive tool.

ACCESS TOOL

Youth suicide attempts rise during COVID-19
McMaster Children's Hospital in Hamilton, Ont., has seen a steady increase of young people in crisis during the pandemic. Youth admitted to hospital after a suicide attempt tripled over a four-month period, according to a CBC News article. Youth reported COVID-related issues – such as increased conflict at home, lack of social interaction, and the inability to rely on friends – as the main contributing factors. If you or someone you know needs support, call Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868.

By 2030, let's aim to reduce by half childhood exposure to negative experiences that lead to poorer mental health

Building a better future for young Canadians

Children First Canada is partnering with leading organizations to promote a social contract for a mentally healthy Canada. COVID-19 has exacerbated the mental health crisis in our nation, creating unprecedented challenges for both children and adults. Now more than ever, we need an agreement between all parts of the public sector, civil society and the business sector to build resiliency and a better future.

Click the button below to learn more about the social contract and how you can promote #MH2030.

LEARN MORE

Our team is growing
We are pleased to announce that Andy Hon Bong Lee has joined the CFC team as Youth Engagement Coordinator. With more than 20 years of experience, he has led strategic initiatives to mobilize young people from diverse cultural and experiential backgrounds. His experience also includes implementing and evaluating advocacy projects that focus on child rights and Indigenous rights. Andy is an avid photographer and believes that everyone should have the right to chase their dreams. Please join us in welcoming Andy to the team!

Fun (and safe) spring break ideas for kids

Due to the ongoing pandemic, families are encouraged to restrict travel and stay at home this year. That means more parents will be looking for safe “staycation” ideas to keep their kids engaged and active. Check out these great indoor and outdoor activities to create a staycation your kids will always remember.