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Head Start programs support the mental health of children, families, and staff every day. Early childhood mental health is the same as social and emotional well-being. It is a child’s developing capacity to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, explore, and learn—all in the cultural context of family and community. The mental health of children and the adults that care for them is essential for school readiness.
Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) Consultations are intended to support parents and caregivers in developing an increased awareness and understanding of the impact of their interactions on a child's social-emotional well-being. The goal is to increase nurturing caregiving practices. This resource is designed to support your work as an ECMH consultant.
Use this case study in trainings with mental health consultants, education supervisors, and other early childhood staff. Learn to observe and recognize children's temperance temperament traits and determine if the child-caregiver relationship is a good fit.
Getting started with IT3.
IT3 Toddler Interactive Tool
A crisis is a period of heightened family tension and imbalance that requires quick staff identification. Head Start staff who work with families will find this information useful in understanding what brings about crises for families. Just as a crisis is an opportunity for a family, it is also an opportunity for staff to make a real difference in the life of a Head Start family
The What Works Brief is a continuing series of easy-to-read, "how to" information packets on a variety early learning practices. Program managers and in-service providers may find this resource useful in meeting professional development needs. This brief discusses children’s emotional literacy and illustrates practical intervention strategies for early childhood settings and home environments
Early childhood programs improve learning outcomes when they implement policies to reduce and eliminate preschool expulsion.
Use this tip sheet to identify the signs of depression. It can be shared with parents so that they learn how to take care of themselves and seek help when necessary.
All young children benefit when their caregivers are healthy and not too stressed or depressed. Explore practical tools to help caregivers build positive relationships with their infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and reduce stress.
Share these posters with families to help them identify daily routines and learn how to increase positive social and emotional support throughout the day.
HeadStart.gov
official website of the Administration for Children and Families
