Every child deserves the opportunity for a bright future. Every infant/early childhood workforce professional deserves the tools to support a child toward that bright future. "Babies’ early experiences and relationships shape how the brain is built and form the foundation for all future development. In order to support optimal early relational development, support for professional development initiatives in the infant, young child and family workforce is a crucial strategy. Providing services to vulnerable babies, young children and their families, particularly those facing chronic adversity, is challenging and requires a unique set of skills. In order to meet these demands, the workforce must have access to high quality in-service training, educational opportunities and reflective experiences that support their work. Acquiring and maintaining this level of professional development requires individual commitment and systems engagement. Recognition for the commitment of infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) informed professionals can be demonstrated by earning the Infant or Early Childhood Mental Health (IMH-E®/ECMH-E®) Endorsement® credential." McCormick, A., Eidson, F.; Endorsement is Good for Babies, 2020 |
The most rapid brain development occurs during the first three years of lifeExtensive research shows that the quality of experiences in the first three years of life shape a baby’s developing brain architecture in powerful ways. The presence of a secure, nurturing relationship between a child and his or her primary caregivers protects the developing brain. |