Infant and early childhood mental health practice refers to the promotion of optimal development and wellbeing in children, prenatal to age 5, and their families, the prevention of difficulties, and intervention when infants are at risk or have identified problems. The goal of infant and early mental health services is to ensure optimal child outcomes in terms of a sense of security and self-esteem, and the ability to form satisfying relationships, to engage with the world, to learn, to cope and problem-solve, and to continue positive development throughout life. Infant and early mental health services strive to promote stable and supportive families and communities.

Infant and Early Mental Health Competencies Checklist

IEMHP has developed a series of documents and practice guidelines relevant for program managers, child care and frontline service providers, and organizational staff to support high-quality services in the field of infant and early mental health. These guidelines are applicable to a wide range of services and disciplines where young children and families are concerned, and we encourage you to incorporate these practice guidelines into staff training and policy.

Download the Infant and Early Mental Health Competencies Checklist