Infant Mental Health - What Is It and Why Is It Important
- Type
- Course
- Date of Publication
- July 7, 2021
- Price
- See Agrilife Learn
Overview
Course Information
In this online course, you will learn about the importance of infant mental health for young children's development.
We begin by defining infant mental health and highlighting three of the key contributors to the field of infant mental health. We discuss several barriers to recognition for the field of infant mental health and describe why implementing infant mental health into practice has been challenging.
We then provide an overview of the importance of early relationships for healthy brain development and emphasize the role of secure attachments and self-regulation for infant mental health.
Finally, we describe infant stress signals and discuss why an understanding of infant mental health is vitally important for early childhood caregivers.
Looking for solutions in your county? Contact your local extension experts
More choices in Aging & Caregiving
- Course
Each of us comes from a unique place in the world. No one else has shared the same experiences in the same way. These unique experiences and where we come from have an impact on how we teach and how we interact with our children. It is critical to be aware of how these experiences impact us. Awareness of its influence and ensuring we are providing opportunities for children to gain a positive sense of self and pro-social skill development is crucial.
After completing this 2.5-hour course, the learner will be able to describe the importance of adults modeling prosocial behaviors, describe the importance of self-esteem and self-regulation, and explain the impact of our cultural identity on our actions and interactions. - Course
As early childhood educators, you are not only keeping children safe and healthy through the environment you have in place but also teaching children about safety and modeling safe, healthy practices.
After completing this 2-hour course, the learner will be able to describe ways to keep children physically safe, explain how to teach children about safety and modeling safe practices, support wellness during routines, describe how to respond to injuries and emergencies, and engage families in safe practices. - Course
Abusive head trauma is the leading cause of death in cases of child abuse in the United States. This 2-hour course will help you better understand the dangers of abusive head trauma and how to take steps to protect the children in your care from this type of abuse.
- Course
Infants’ experiences early in life literally influence the physical structures of the brain, opening the way for patterns of thought and behavior for the rest of a child’s life. This 1-hour course addresses critical topics related to caring for the youngest and most vulnerable population of children, infants and toddlers.
- Course
One of the most challenging aspects of child care is deciding upon a style of discipline that is appropriate, effective, and in the best interest of each child. Students will learn about the strengths and weaknesses of various disciplinary styles and explore strategies for setting and enforcing healthy limits.
- Course
Guidance and discipline issues are two of the most challenging aspects of any early childhood teacher’s work. Explore what contributes to problem behaviors and how to work with children to promote positive behaviors. Examine the effects of the classroom environment on children’s behaviors.