Children and adolescents experience a wide range of emotions as they grow and develop. Stress related to school, frienships, family changes or life events can sometimes affect a student's emotional well being. Parents and caregivers play an important role in supporting children's mental health and helping them build healthy coping skills.
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and early support can help prevent more serious challenges later. Mental health affects how children think, feel, behave, and interact with others. Emotional well being supports learning, relationships, and overall development. When students feel supported and understood, they are better able to manage stress and suceed both academically and socially.
Some signs that a child may be experiencing emotional challenges include:
• Sudden mood changes
• Withdrawal from friends or activities
• Difficulty concentrating at school
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Increased anxiety or irritability
If concerns continue or begin to interfere with daily functioning, it may be helpful to seek additional support. You are also encouraged to let their school know!
Parents and caregivers can support their child’s emotional well-being by:
• Encouraging open communication
• Listening without judgment
• Establishing consistent routines
• Promoting healthy sleep habits
• Encouraging physical activity and positive social connections
Creating a supportive and safe environment helps children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions.
Summerwind Trails provides several supports to help students succeed both academically and emotionally.
These supports may include:
• School counseling services
• Collaboration between teachers and families
If your child is in crisis — call immediately. These lines are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Call or Text)
(951) 686-4357 — Riverside County Crisis Helpline, available 24/7
Riverside County CARES Line:
Free Referrals. Not sure where to start? Call this free line and they'll help match your child to the right program in Riverside County.
📞 (800) 499-3008 (Also dial 2-1-1 for general help)
💳 Free service
Riverside County Urgent Mental Health Care:
No Appointment Needed, Walk-in mental health urgent care available 24/7. No insurance required, no appointment needed. For kids and families in need of immediate (but non-emergency) support.
📞 (800) 499-3008 to find nearest location
💳 Free, regardless of insurance
Oasis Banning Center (Therapy & Counseling):
Helps children up to age 21. Offers therapy at home, at school, in the community, or online. Bilingual staff available.
📍 940 E. Williams St., Suite 103, Banning, CA
📞 (951) 588-2553
💳 Accepts Medi-Cal
BrightLife Kids: Free app for parents of children ages 0–12. Offers one-on-one coaching, help finding care, and peer support. No insurance or referral needed.
CalHOPE Warm Line: Free, confidential support for parents and youth who need someone to talk to. Not just for emergencies — good for everyday stress and worry too. Available by call, text, or live chat.
NAMI California (Youth Mental Health Guide): Free guide for parents on how to talk to your child about mental health, spot warning signs early, and find the right help.
🌐 NAMIca.org (search "Youth Mental Health Guide")
California Youth Crisis Line: 24/7 support line specifically for youth ages 12–24 and their families. Free and confidential.
📞 1-800-843-5200
Never a Bother: A free resource for parents AND students focused on youth mental health. Provides guides, tools, and support to help families and young people navigate mental health challenges together. 🌐 neverabother.org