A Path to Thriving Young Minds - Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation

WRITTEN BY FLORA MCCORMICK, LCPC, IECMHC, PARENTING COACH

Montana recently received a substantial grant, bolstering the support available for our young children. These new efforts statewide offer Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation to early childhood education (ECE) sites, so children, families and staff can thrive.

What is Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation?

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (ECMHC) is a service where mental health experts work with teachers, parents and sometimes children. They help adults understand, prevent and respond to mental health challenges in young kids. This makes classrooms and care settings more supportive and nurturing for all children.

The Role of the Mental Health Consultant

Mental health consultants work with caregivers and educators to boost their skills in promoting kids’ emotional and social well-being. Here’s what they do:

• Observation and Assessment: They watch kids in their everyday environments to spot any mental health concerns and understand how the classroom works.

• Coaching and Training: They offer personalized coaching and training for teachers and caregivers, giving them tools and techniques to support kids’ mental health.

• Program Development: They help create and implement policies and practices that promote mental health across early childhood programs.

Benefits of ECMHC

The impact of ECMHC is wide-reaching. By focusing on the adults in a child’s life, consultants indirectly help the children, creating a positive effect throughout the early childhood environment. Some key benefits include:

• Improved Behavioral Outcomes: Kids in programs with ECMHC support have fewer behavioral problems and better social skills.

• Enhanced Teacher Skills: Teachers feel more confident and capable of handling classroom challenges and supporting kids’ emotional needs.

• Systemic Change: Programs with ECMHC integrate mental health into their everyday practices, creating a culture of emotional well-being and support.

Michael’s Story

Michael’s preschool teacher noticed that he sometimes acted aggressively toward other kids. With his parents’ permission, the teacher asked a mental health consultant to observe the classroom. Together, they made a plan to help Michael cope differently when frustrated and to calm down when overwhelmed. They taught the whole class new calming techniques and shared these with the parents so they could use them at home too. The teacher also spent a few quiet minutes with Michael each afternoon to help him through the toughest part of his day. Over time, the teacher saw fewer incidents of aggression and Michael’s behavior improved. The teacher also found a valuable resource in the consultant for solving other behavioral challenges.

Why It Matters

Early childhood is a crucial time for mental health development. Experiences during these years lay the foundation for future emotional and social well-being. By prioritizing mental health, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive emotionally, socially and academically. Embracing ECMHC is a vital step toward building a brighter, healthier future for our youngest generations. If you know a Montana ECE that would benefit from working with an IECMHC in their program, grant funding is available now on a first come, first-served basis. Please contact Amber Rogers for more information at arogers@mpqhf.org.