PRESCHOOL EDUCATORS’ VIEWS ON SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Schools are considered the ideal place to provide mental health services. International literature highlights the importance of early detection of mental health problems and the implementation of preventive interventions in school context. The present study aims to explore preschool teachers’ views regarding the involvement of the school in the prevention and treatment of students' mental health problems in preschool education and the ways in which the school can assist in supporting students. The sample of the research consisted of 115 preschool teachers. The method of data collection was a questionnaire. The results of the research showed that the majority of teachers believe that the school should be involved in the prevention and treatment of children's mental health problems. In addition, they defined the characteristics of mental health in preschool children. Simultaneously, they argue that enhancing a child's self-confidence, developing positive interpersonal relationships between teachers and students and collaborative relationships with parents are the main ways in which the school can support students with mental health problems. Research findings could be utilized in designing mental health promotion interventions. Article visualizations