Vision

All infants and young children in RI thrive through their experiences of nurturing and protective relationships with parents and all providers who care for them. We strive to uphold a parallel process in which families see themselves represented by a diverse, knowledgeable, and well-supported workforce.

Mission

The mission of RIAIMH is to build, sustain and partner with a diverse workforce, informed by infant and early childhood mental health principles. Together we work towards the advancement of social and economic justice for the workforce and families and children that they serve. We aim to support the early relational health of babies, young children, and their families that experience the greatest needs, recognizing that these families are disproportionately from BIPOC communities and experience racial disparities.

Commitment

RIAIMH is committed to holding emotional space and providing opportunities for convening, collaborating with/for the workforce to promote/uphold racial and social justice/equity, anti-racist action, and reflective practice with the purpose of dismantling systems and practices of oppression that especially affect people of color. We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging practices that serve to mitigate bias and disparity in the programs, practices, and systems that serve infants, young children and families and providers.

EDUCATE

We offer professional development programs that bring the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) community together through leadership and collaborative learning. Our trainings are aligned with a nationally recognized IMH-Competency Guideline which supports professionals across disciplines—such as nursing, social work, psychology, early education, pediatrics, medicine, child welfare, home visiting and early intervention—with practical skills and deeper insight into IECMH best practices.

ENGAGE

Through reflective practice and supervision training, consultation, and community-building we engage those who care for pregnant women, young children, and families.  We advocate within government and regulatory systems for resources and informed practices that support the social and emotional well-being of Rhode Island’s youngest children and their families. Our members stay up to date on IMH news, best practices, and training opportunities—and are encouraged to engage, contribute, and grow together. 

ELEVATE

The Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health-Endorsement® (IECMH-E) is an internationally recognized credential that fosters reflective, culturally humble, relationship-based practices. It equips professionals to support strong, nurturing relationships between young children and the adults who care for them. In Rhode Island, the Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® credential honors and elevates the specialized knowledge and expertise of professionals across the infant, early childhood, and family-serving workforce—recognizing their commitment to high-quality, developmentally informed care.

Support Accessibility

Recite Me Web Accessibility and Language Toolbar

Recite Me is innovative cloud-based software that lets visitors view and use our website in a way that works best for them. Learn More about Recite Me

RIAIMH has added the Recite Me to our website to make it accessible and inclusive for as many people as possible.