NORMAL, Ill. (WAND) — As part of an effort to enhance early childhood mental health, the Baby Fold has a program that is working directly in daycares, preschools, and childcare centers.
The Caregiver Connections program is staffed by six consultants, all with early childhood mental health experience, who visit childcare centers across 19 counties in central Illinois.
The consultants each average around 10 sites per month, and collaborate with caregivers to observe children in their normal environments to identify behaviors that may indicate underlying developmental concerns.
The Baby Fold said the most common referral reasons include aggressive behaviors and difficulty with listening. Consultants help providers interpret these behaviors, such as biting or breaking toys, to figure out what is developmentally typical and what might require additional support.
“We also help caregivers identify their strengths, reflect on their practices, and build stronger relationships with the children in their care. This leads to more positive outcomes,” said program supervisor Cris Hawk in a statement.
The program also offers training and professional development to help childcare providers learn more about child development and mental health topics.
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