Malta Families Pair Mental Health Days with Dining Wellness
More parents in Malta are allowing their children to take mental health days off school, reflecting an increased awareness of emotional wellbeing. A recent survey found that three-quarters of parents prioritize mental health over academic obligations, with many observing improved behavior in their children after such breaks. This trend aligns with Malta’s focus on holistic wellness, including balanced lifestyles that incorporate healthy eating and family time. Malta’s dining culture plays a role in fostering mental and physical health, with family-friendly restaurants offering nutritious, seasonal options. However, experts caution against excessive school absences, emphasizing the importance of maintaining routines while supporting mental health. Initiatives from the Department for Education aim to balance attendance with access to mental health resources. Parents in Malta are using these breaks to instill habits of self-care, connection, and mindful eating, contributing to healthier, happier children and reinforcing Malta’s position as a Mediterranean culinary destination.
More Parents in Malta Opt for Mental Health Days to Support Children’s Wellbeing
A recent survey reveals a growing trend among parents prioritizing their children’s mental health over academic obligations, with three-quarters allowing their kids to take ‘duvet days’ off school for emotional reasons. Interestingly, 40% of these parents admitted to doing so more than once, with an average of six such days reported per school year. Encouragingly, 75% observed improved behaviour in their children after these breaks, and an overwhelming 97% stated they would choose mental health over academic performance.
In Malta, where family values and community play a central role, this trend reflects an increasing awareness of mental health’s importance. As parents strive to create a balanced lifestyle for their children, wellness extends beyond the classroom. For many families, this includes fostering healthier eating habits, spending quality time together, and embracing Malta’s vibrant dining culture.
With the rise of remote work, 32% of parents admitted being more relaxed about school attendance compared to five years ago. This shift has also encouraged nearly three in five parents to take their children on term-time holidays, which can include exploring Malta’s rich culinary scene. From fresh Mediterranean seafood to traditional Maltese dishes like rabbit stew or ftira, sharing a meal is more than just eating—it’s an opportunity to connect and unwind, supporting both physical and mental health.
However, the survey also highlighted concerns that some families may be treating school as optional, with absences for reasons like cinema trips or hair appointments. Research from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has linked increased school absences to mental health challenges, underscoring the need for balance. While occasional breaks can be rejuvenating, experts caution against a pattern of disengagement from school routines.
The Department for Education has responded with initiatives to improve attendance, including a ‘support first’ approach and expanded access to mental health support teams. Such efforts align with Malta’s own focus on holistic wellbeing, where mental health awareness is gaining momentum alongside the nation’s emphasis on healthy living.
For parents in Malta, prioritizing mental health can go hand-in-hand with introducing their children to mindful eating and self-care habits. Visiting one of Malta’s many family-friendly restaurants can be a wonderful way to decompress together, while also exposing children to balanced, nutritious meals. Many local establishments now cater to health-conscious diners, offering plant-based options, gluten-free dishes, and menus that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Ultimately, these mental health days don’t just serve as a break from school—they’re an opportunity to instill lifelong habits of self-care, connection, and balance. Whether it’s a day spent exploring Malta’s natural beauty or enjoying a wholesome meal as a family, prioritizing mental wellness can nurture healthier, happier children.