Event encourages creativity, mental health awareness in students

Kids decorating pencil cases at Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. (Sean McClune/CTV News Edmonton)

Students and families got the chance to get ready for school at Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre and learn about a critical support line for youth.

The Pencil Me In! event gave kids the chance to decorate and take home a pencil case and art supplies to spark creativity and promote mental wellness.

“It’s back to school, it’s hectic for families, we want them to know they’re supported,” said Leah Day, the marketing manager with Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre.

“The pencil case is to bring the families in to have a fun activity, so we can inform them about Kids Help Phone and let them know that support is available.”

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The event was part of a national program, Check-In, to raise awareness of the mental health and wellness challenges faced by young people.

The program encourages meaningful conversations, beginning with the question, “How are you?”

Tools, resources and information are also available to help youth, including the Kids Help Phone, a 24/7 e-mental health service that offers free, multilingual and confidential support to young people.

Participants were also entered to win several prizes, including backpacks stuffed with snacks and shopping sprees.