Training provided to dormitory teachers in Gobi-Altai province on psychological first aid for children

As part of its ongoing humanitarian efforts, Save the Children is addressing the critical needs of herder families facing harsh winter and spring conditions in several provinces. This includes providing essential cash assistance and animal fodder to support their livelihood.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by children living in these demanding environments, Save the Children conducted a training on “Psychological First Aid for Children” for school dormitory staff across five provinces to equip them with the knowledge and skills to support children’s emotional well-being.

Psychological first aid plays a vital role in protecting children’s mental health, alleviating concerns about their families, fostering resilience, and enabling them to thrive academically during times of climate-related hardship and emergencies. The training, which leverages Save the Children International’s expertise in this area, was held on 19-20 February 2024 in Altai town, Gobi-Altai province.

The training equipped 21 teachers from 19 school dormitories with the tools to provide effective psychological first aid. These dedicated teachers serve as a crucial support system for 1,172 children residing in these dormitories.

Teachers are the closest people to children living in dormitories. The training focused on recognizing and understanding signs of distress in children, equipping teachers with the ability to offer timely and high-quality interventions. By addressing challenges promptly, the program aims to prevent the development of short-term and long-term psychological issues, empowering children to cope with and adapt to difficult situations.