Children's Mental Health Program
Two-week camps every April and August, counselling, creative therapy and screening — because mental health is not a luxury.
2,000+
Children & adolescents reached
600
Parents & caregivers trained
100
Teachers equipped
Programme overview
The Children's Mental Health Program is a dedicated intervention that promotes the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of children and adolescents across Nairobi's informal settlements. Launched in 2022, the programme provides safe, supportive, and nurturing spaces where children can learn, heal, build resilience, and thrive — because mental health is not a luxury. It is a fundamental component of every child's development.
When children experience emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, family conflict, bullying, or academic pressure without adequate support, their ability to learn, socialize, and reach their potential is severely compromised. This programme exists to change that.
Mental health camps
Since 2022, Child Space Organization has organized intensive two-week Mental Health Camps every April and August. The camps run from morning to evening and provide participants with a structured, child-friendly environment where they engage in activities designed to promote mental wellness, self-awareness, confidence, and positive social interactions.
To ensure participants' holistic well-being, nutritious meals are provided throughout the camp period. The camps are implemented in formal collaboration with the Nairobi City County Government through a Memorandum of Understanding, strengthening community-level mental health responses for children and adolescents.
“These camps are not just programmes — they are sanctuaries. Many of the children who attend have never before had a safe space to talk, to feel heard, or to simply be a child.”
Our approach
A preventive, supportive, and developmental approach that builds resilience while identifying concerns early.
- Screening and psychosocial assessments
- Mental health awareness and education sessions
- Individual and group counselling sessions
- Life skills and resilience-building workshops
- Stress and anxiety management techniques
- Self-esteem and confidence-building activities
- Art, music, and creative therapy sessions
- Sports and recreational activities
- Peer support and mentorship programs
- Child protection and safeguarding education
Parent & caregiver engagement — #AdulchiDay
Children's mental health cannot be addressed in isolation. Our #AdulchiDay initiative engages parents and guardians directly.
- Positive parenting practices
- Effective communication with children and adolescents
- Understanding adolescent development and behavioural changes
- Identifying signs of emotional distress and mental health challenges
- Supporting children through difficult experiences
- Creating safe, nurturing, and violence-free family environments
Teacher capacity building
Teachers are often the first adults to notice changes in a child's behaviour, mood, or academic performance.
- Recognize early signs of mental health challenges
- Provide basic psychosocial first-aid and support
- Create inclusive and psychologically safe learning environments
- Refer children to specialized support when needed
- Champion positive mental health practices within their schools
Programme objectives
Promote positive mental health
To improve the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of children and adolescents.
Build resilience and life skills
To equip children with the skills needed to manage stress, overcome challenges, and adapt positively to life's experiences.
Increase mental health awareness
To reduce stigma and increase understanding of mental health issues among children, parents, teachers, and communities.
Strengthen support systems
To empower families, schools, and communities to provide safe and supportive environments.
Facilitate early intervention
To identify mental health concerns early and connect children and families to appropriate support services.
Implementing partner
Nairobi City County Government — MoU partner for the Mental Health Camps.
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