Ongoing research continues to show us how adversity and toxic stress in early childhood can have a negative impact throughout a person's life. Toxic stress can impact a child's health, behavior, and ability to learn. These videos appeal to Head Start staff and health care professionals. They are designed to help them understand what toxic stress is, what it does to a person, and easy things to do to help prevent it.
The following fact sheet may serve as a guide for early care teachers and administrators when assembling resources to promote the social and emotional well being of children in classrooms, programs and communities.
While roughly 15 percent of new mothers suffer from maternal depression, the rates are much higher in families with lower incomes. In fact, 52 percent of mothers in an Early Head Start research study reported high levels of depressive symptoms.
The What Works Brief is a continuing series of easy-to-read, "how to" information packets on a variety early learning practices. Program managers and in-service providers may find this resource useful in meeting professional development needs. This brief discusses children’s emotional literacy and illustrates practical intervention strategies for early childhood settings and home environments
Social & Emotional Development
Use this resource to help build parent and staff capacity in using books and stories for helping young children learn, manage strong emotions, deal with feelings of grief, or work on their social skills.
The ideas and strategies outlined below are available in a variety of formats. They include Twitter postings ("tweets"), classroom activities, and supplemental materials that can be sent home for families to do at home.
Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) Consultations are intended to support parents and caregivers in developing an increased awareness and understanding of the impact of their interactions on a child's social-emotional well-being. The goal is to increase nurturing caregiving practices. This resource is designed to support your work as an ECMH consultant.
Taking Care of Ourselves: Stress and Relaxation
Approaches to Learning