As we keep moving forward through the COVID-19 crisis, the mental health and wellbeing of children and their caregivers is an area that has increased in attention and need. It’s important to note that:

• Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year;
• 46 percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime
  in their life, and half of those people will develop conditions by the age of 14.
  Source: Mental Health America (MHA) https://mhanational.org/

Below is a list of mental health resources that child care providers can use as they continue to serve children and families through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond:

• PA Key Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Program (IECMH): https://www.pakeys.org/iecmh/
  The IECMH Program can help children, families and early child education providers through a reflective,
  collaborative, problem-solving and capacity-building relationship that builds stronger relationships and
  helps infants and young children feel safe, supported, and valued. Free support includes:
  • The Pennsylvania Key IECMHC Virtual Office Hours https://s35729.pcdn.co/wpcontent/uploads/2021/07/Pennsylvania-Key-IECMHC-Virtual-Office-Hours-7.21.pdf
  • IECMH Consultation https://s35729.pcdn.co/wpcontent/uploads/2021/03/IECMHbrochure_Feb2021.pdf
  • IECMH Resources: Newsletter, Reports, Early Childhood Mental Health Matters Handouts https://www.pakeys.org/iecmh/resources/

Head Start Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/mental-health

• Head Start Campain: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/mental-health/article/head-start-heals-campaign
• Supports increased awareness about how programs can provide protective factors, such as strong,
  trusting relationships and safe, stable environments that promote healing for children, families, and
  staff.
• Resources created from FAQs submitted during the Head Start Heals Campaign and related
  office hours can be found here: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/mental-health/article/headstart-heals-frequently-asked-questions. Topics include:
  • Child Abuse and Neglect
  • Engaging Families
  • Self-Care and Stress Management
  • Supporting and Understanding Trauma During COVID-19
  • Supporting Grief and Loss
  • Talking to Children about COVID-19
  • Transitioning Back to School after Quarantine

Mental Health Resources to Support Response and Recovery During COVID-19 - https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/mental-health/article/mental-health-resources-support-responserecovery-during-covid-19

• Provides resources that child care programs can use with families and staff affected by a crisis or tragic event and may be helpful as programs respond to COVID-19. Find materials on mental health and wellness, short- and long-term recovery, and caring for yourself during recovery.
• Mental Health America (MHA) offers a screening resource that can help determine if a caregiver may be having emotional, attentional, or behavioral difficulties: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

10/2021