Literacy news
The way I see it
13 Oct 2006
By Barbara Herts, Chief Executive of mental health charity YoungMinds.
When people talk about healthy babies and toddlers it is generally their physical needs that are focused on, but their mental health and emotional well being is so important in these early years. Nearly all mental health difficulties are identified in early childhood, which is why we must give this issue the attention it deserves.
Although babies and toddlers may not be able to talk about their feelings as older children and teenagers can, they are quick to pick up the mood of those who care for them and they show their feelings in other ways, such as becoming clingy or fretful or withdrawing altogether. Research strongly suggests that the way the brain develops is linked to relationships formed in the early years, most often with the primary care giver. Although relationships later in life are also hugely influential and important we cannot underestimate those very first attachments.
The vulnerability of babies and toddlers to mental health problems is becoming increasingly accepted, yet still many child mental health specialists do not see the under-five age group as a priority when it comes to providing mental health services. Very young children do not often have obvious symptoms and are, therefore, easier to overlook, which is not an acceptable way of dealing with the issue. The lack of training for child psychiatrists and other child and adult mental health services specialists in dealing with the specific needs of young children is partly responsible for this. This is something that the government, as well as wider society, needs to make a priority if there is to be a greater understanding of the impact of mental health in children under five.
Here at YoungMinds we campaign tirelessly for this greater understanding, to both the decision makers and the public, as well as providing support services for parents and professionals working with children and young people. YoungMinds fully welcomes the new guidance on the children's mental health grant and the new target regarding early identification of mental health problems. We believe it is our duty as a nation to recognise the importance of good mental health in babies and toddlers and nurture this right from the start so that they can grow up to be strong, confident adults.
(Under 5, April 2006)
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