Introduction to Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health

Catalog description

Co-requisites: ECD 103 or permission of instructor Description This course introduces the growing field of infant and early childhood mental health (I/ECMH). It provides an in-depth examination of the theories, practices and structures which specifically support the positive social and emotional development of young children, from birth to age eight. Integrating theory into interactions with young children and their families to promote healthy relationships is a focus of the course. Ethical considerations and career opportunities are also discussed. Students must have three current clearances: FBI Fingerprint Clearance, a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and a Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Clearance and meet the local requirements of the field placement site, including the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification Clearance. A weekly field observation in infant/toddler and/or early childhood programs is required, based on the student’s course of study.