Infant Mental Health (IMH)…

Young children, including infants and toddlers, often behave in ways that are meaningful, even if they are difficult or triggering for family members and caregivers.

For example, a young child with sensory processing difficulties may tantrum in response to clothing with tags or seams, telling us that they are overstimulated and uncomfortable. A young child with birth trauma may display “clinginess” or a very active fear response, telling us that they don’t believe they are safe.

IMH approaches are culturally-embedded ways to support social-emotional development and ultimately help family members support their children in ways that build trusting relationships and develop skills for being in the world.

At NWC, IMH is incorporated into equine therapy, nature-based therapy, and home visits. It can include assessments/observations (i.e. the Newborn Behavioral Observation), and actively works to support parents/caregivers to understand the child’s behavior and emotions.