Everyone gets stressed out from time to time; even kids. That’s why, following in the footsteps of other states, schoolkids in Illinois will soon have some much-needed relief thanks to a newly-passed law, according to NPR.
Starting in January 2022, schoolchildren will be able to take up to five mental health days per year, with no doctor’s note required. They will even be able to make up any work missed on those days. “I am really excited for this. I think it will help students, parents and teachers, and can help them understand what’s going on in their students’ lives,” said Illinois State Representative Barbara Hernandez. “Many students are going through a lot mentally and emotionally and they need support.”
The Illinois bill follows other states’ similar bills passed in recent years, including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Nevada, Oregon and Virginia.
It’s good to see that the idea of supporting the wellbeing of childrens’ minds is gaining traction, in addition to the educational support they currently receive. Hopefully, this is a trend that will continue to grow.