Abstract:

High-quality early childhood education and care (ECEC) have a positive influence on all aspects of children's development. This paper focuses on child mental health issues from the perspective of preschool teachers. The competence of preschool teachers in dealing with mental health issues is as important as professional support. In Croatian ECEC, not enough attention has been paid to teachers' professional development that enables their capacities to create supportive educational conditions or environments for children's mental health. The aim of this study was to find out how preschool teachers perceive their role in the mental health promotion of children's. Fifteen preschool educators from Primorsko-goranska and Istarska counties and the city of Zagreb participated in this study. A qualitative approach was applied and created a semi-structured interview protocol.

The results of the thematic analysis indicate that preschool teachers perceive their role in the promotion of children's mental health in four areas:
(1) Interactions,
(2) Learning environment,
(3) Professional development, and
(4) Family and community, that are in line with areas of competent 21.

Teachers by ISSA pedagogical standards. Findings suggest that preschool teachers recognize the importance of mental health promotion and their role in supporting a healthy environment, as well as the need for professional collaboration in the best interest of the child. They are aware of their professional role in establishing quality interaction with the child to ensure their well-being through emotional support, appreciation of their needs, and mutual communication. Further, teachers emphasize their role in creating a positive and encouraging environment in which children play an active role and have the opportunity to learn through interactions with their peers. They focus on quality relationships and communication with parents and professionals to promote children's rights. The continuous professional development of preschool teachers in the promotion of children's mental health is crucial in achieving maximum well-being and positive childhood experiences.

Keywords:

Preschool children, teacher, mental health, professional development, promotion.