About the Session: The early years of life are a critical period for brain development, emotional growth, and relationship-building. This webinar explores the foundations of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) and the powerful role that family members and providers play in creating safe, nurturing environments for babies and young children. The session will offer practical strategies and resources to empower families and those who support them.

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Define Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) and explain why the first years of life are critical for development.
• Recognize how stress, isolation, and unmet needs can increase risk for early childhood abuse and neglect.
• Identify protective factors that strengthen families and support healthy parent-child relationships.
• Apply practical strategies to support new parents and promote nurturing, responsive caregiving.