October 4, 2021 Sesame Street: Little Children, Big Challenges “Little Children, Big Challenges,” a video special from Sesame Street, offers caregivers tips on how to help children cope with uncertainty by building resilience. It focuses on building young children’s coping skills and fostering nurturing connections between them and the caring adults in their lives—whether parents, caregivers, or community providers. More Information With some of our favorite friends from Sesame Street and insights from early childhood education specialists and community service providers, the special offers tools and tips to families as they face each day with courage, optimism and hope. Suggestions include things that almost all of us can try, like sticking to a routine, talking about our feelings, and reaching out to friends and family we miss even if we are not able to see them in person. Watch the video.
Guide to Treatment for Children With Mental Health Needs, HealthyPlace How and where do you get help for your child’s psychological disorder? This guide from HealthyPlace can help families figure out where to start. More Information Families who have received help from systems of care participated with the Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health in creating this guide. In seeking appropriate care for their children, family members reported having felt overwhelmed, alone, intimidated, or even blamed. They found strength by sharing their experiences with other families. They have used their experiences to help develop this guide, which can help families figure out what they need to know; what questions to ask; what to expect; and what they can do. Read the guide.
Complex Trauma: Facts for Caregivers, NCTSN Complex trauma describes children’s exposure to multiple traumatic events and the long-term impact of that exposure. These traumatic events usually begin in early life and might disrupt the child’s development and interfere with the child’s ability to form secure attachment bonds. More Information This fact sheet from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network helps parents and caregivers recognize the signs and symptoms of complex trauma and offers recommendations on how to help children heal.
Sesame Street in Communities: Exploring Emotions Feelings come in all shapes and sizes. When you help children express and understand their emotions, you’re helping them to overcome challenges, understand others, and communicate. More Information Sesame Street in Communities: Exploring Emotions gives parents the tools to help their children learn about their feelings. Worksheet activities, videos, and articles will guide children as they handle big feelings, little ones, and every feeling in between.
Services and Resources for Childhood Mental Health Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental disorders. Families play an important role in supporting their children through struggles and treatment. Check out our list of resources for available services, more information, and tools. Childhood Mental Health Resources Local Services Infant Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) Consultation Program Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) Consultation is a free resource offered through the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) that supports children’s social–emotional development from birth through age five within early learning programs participating in Keystone STARS. IECMH Consultants specialize in early childhood development and mental health and well-being. They work with parents and caregivers in the early care and education setting to provide onsite or virtual classroom observations; screening/assessment strategies for children and classrooms; implement a process to identify strengths and opportunities for growth; facilitate the creation of an action plan to support children and classroom staff; and provide Referrals for additional supports if needed. For more information, visit pakeys.org/iecmh. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Keystone Pennsylvania Chapter NAMI Keystone Pennsylvania is a grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, adults, and families affected by mental illness through recovery-focused support, education, and advocacy. Resources about mental illnesses and services are available. For more information, call 412.366.3788 or visit namikeystonepa.org. Steel Smiling Steel Smiling aims to bridge the gap between Black people and mental health support through education, advocacy and awareness. Their 10-year vision is to connect every Black person in Allegheny County to a positive mental health experience that improves their quality of life. For more information, call 412.532.9458 or visit steelsmilingpgh.org. The Alliance for Infants and Toddlers The Alliance for Infants and Toddlers is an Early Intervention service provider in Allegheny County for children ages zero to three. For more information, call 412.885.6000 or visit afit.org. The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh offers behavioral health services for children and adolescents ages 5 to 21. Their licensed therapists and Certified Nurse Practitioner work closely with each client and their family to develop skills to manage mood, thinking, and behaviors – making the move towards resiliency and healing. For more information, call 412.420.2400 or visit amazingkids.org. Allegheny Intermediate Unit DART The Allegheny Intermediate Unit offers DART Preschool Early Intervention for children in Allegheny County, ages three to five, who are experiencing developmental delays or disabilities at no cost to parents. For more information, call 412.394.5700 or visit aiu3.net. National Resources National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI offers a variety of programs, support groups, and a helpline for those in need. For more information, call 1.800.950.6264 or visit nami.org. National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) was created to raise the standard of care and increase access to services for children and families who experience or witness traumatic events. Visit nctsn.org for more information. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders. NIMH offers resources, brochures, and fact sheets on mental health disorders and related topics for patients and their families, health professionals, and the public. For more information, call 1.866.615.6464 or visit nimh.nih.gov. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation and to improve the lives of individuals living with mental and substance use disorders, and their families. SAMHSA Disaster Behavioral Health Information Series (DBHIS) focuses on disaster behavioral health resources for children and youth, their families, and child-serving professionals. DBHIS offers resources that can be used by parents and other caregivers and school staff to teach children about disasters, how to prepare before they occur, and coping with their disaster reactions. Learn more: samhsa.gov/dbhis-collections/children-and-youth-resource-collection SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative (NCTSI) improves treatment and services for children, adolescents, and families who have experienced traumatic events. The mission of NCTSI is to transform mental health care for children, adolescents, and families affected by trauma throughout the country by improving the quality of community-based trauma treatment and services and increasing access to effective trauma-focused interventions. Learn more: samhsa.gov/child-trauma/about-nctsi The Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health The Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health is a global organization that partners with associations of infant mental health so that associations can support, grow, diversify, and advocate for their local infant & early childhood mental health-informed workforce. For more information, call 734.785.7705 ext. 7210 or visit allianceaimh.org.
Parental Mental Health Impacts on Children Parents and caregivers of young children play a critical role in a child’s brain development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), parenting behavior has a significant influence on children’s mental health and may contribute to the development of emotional or behavior problems in children. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 20% of U.S. adults and 17% of children ages 6 to 17 are experiencing mental illness or a mental health disorder. Most prevalent among both parents and children today are anxiety disorders (19%) and depression (7%), followed by post-traumatic stress disorder (4%). The CDC states that in a recent study, one in 14 children aged 0–17 years had a parent who reported poor mental health, and those children were more likely to have poor general health; to have a mental, emotional, or developmental disability; to have adverse childhood experiences such as exposure to violence or family disruptions; and to be living in poverty. According to Mental Health America, some mental health conditions have a genetic link. However, factors like a child’s genetic vulnerability, the parent’s behavior, the child’s understanding of the parent’s illness, and the degree of family stability could also play a role in whether or not the children of parents with mental illness will develop social, emotional, or behavioral problems. Talking About Mental Illness with Children Talking to children about mental illness can be an opportunity for parents to provide their children with information, support, and guidance. When talking with children about mental illness, the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry suggests: communicating in a straightforward manner communicating at a level that is appropriate to a child’s age and development level Preschool-age children don’t need details, and the focus should be on what they can see (sadness, anger, etc.). School-age children might require more details and they might have questions. In that case, it’s important for parents and caregivers to answer questions honestly and reassure them about their feelings. Teenagers can handle details, and they might ask specific questions. They respond better to open dialogue versus lectures. having the discussion when the child feels safe and comfortable watching their child’s reaction during the discussion slowing down or backing up if the child becomes confused or looks upset Positive Parenting Tips In addition to being open and honest with children, other parental interventions can prevent negative outcomes for future generations. Parents and caregivers can do the following to decrease the risk of mental illness to children: Ensuring that the child is loved Assuring the child that they are not to blame Enlisting help and support from family members Creating a stable home environment Participating in psychotherapy as a family Promoting inner strength and good coping skills in the child Enlisting help from outside the family to improve the family environment Encouraging a strong relationship with a healthy adult, friendships, and healthy interests outside the home for the child Books to Help Discuss a Parent or Caregiver’s Mental Disorder Books can help guide the conversation about a family member’s mental illness. Here are some suggestions: Binky Bunny Wants to Know about Bipolar Disorder by Kathleen Boros The Bipolar Bear Family: When a Parent Has Bipolar Disorder by Angela Holloway Wishing Wellness: A Workbook for Children of Parents with Mental Illness by Lisa Clarke Why Is Dad So Mad? by Seth Kastle Managing Mental Illness and Parenting The typical stresses of parenthood can be extra challenging on top of a mental illness. It’s important to practice self care, as it promotes good physical and mental health. Work on proper eating habits, getting enough exercise and rest, practicing relaxation techniques, and accepting help from family and friends when things feel difficult. To find support or more information on living with a mental health condition, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website.
Developmentally Appropriate Parenting Series: Part VII Childhood Mental Health Mental health is the overall wellness of how people think, regulate feelings, and behave. Mental health is important at every stage of life, including childhood. Mental health disorders in children are generally defined as delays or disruptions in developing age-appropriate thinking, behaviors, social skills or regulation of emotions. These disorders can cause distress to children and disrupt their ability to function well at home, in school, or in other social situations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 7.1 percent of children ages three to 17 (approximately 4.4 million) have diagnosed anxiety, while 3.2 percent of children aged three to 17 (approximately 1.9 million) have diagnosed depression. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one in five teenagers between 13 and 18 will experience at least one “severe mental disorder” during their life, as will roughly 13 percent of kids between ages five and 15 years. Featured Resources A Guide for Families: Childhood Mental Health According to the CDC, symptoms of mental disorders often start in early childhood, though some disorders may develop during the teenage years. Learn about common childhood mental health disorders, warning signs, first steps for families, and available local services. Services and Resources for Children with Mental Health Disorders Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental disorders. Families play an important role in supporting their children through struggles and treatment. Check out our list of resources for available services, more information, and tools. Children’s Books About Mental Health There are various children’s books available that parents can use to help their children understand what specific mental health disorders are and how to cope with them. Here’s a list of some titles. How Parental Mental Illness Impacts Children Parents and caregivers of young children play a critical role in a child’s brain development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), parenting behavior has a significant influence on children’s mental health and may contribute to the development of emotional or behavior problems in children. Learn some positive parenting tips, where to find support, and how to talk to children about mental health. Supporting Children Who Have Anxiety Anxiety disorders in children are persistent fears, worries, or anxiety that disrupt their ability to participate in play, school, or typical age-appropriate social situations. Parents and caregivers can implement several practices at home to help children cope with their anxiety. Learn more. Anxiety Disorder Fact Sheets for Educators and Childcare Providers The Differences Among Mental, Developmental and Behavioral Conditions Mental, developmental, and behavioral conditions often get grouped together because they affect thought processes and behavior. The term “dual diagnosis” is often used to refer to children and adults who have developmental disability and/or behavioral difficulties with co-occurring mental illness. While these conditions can affect children in similar ways, they are very much different. Learn how. Learn More Additional resources and information can be found on the Trying Together website at www.tryingtogether.org/parenting-resources.
June 9, 2021 Healthy Eating Guides: At the Grocery Store Healthy Eating Guides Do you want to learn how to promote good nutrition and healthy eating at home? Check out the following healthy eating guides and more from Nationwide Children’s Hospital! What topics are covered? The guides include information on food groups, portion sizes, how to read food labels to better understand ingredients, how to save money at the store, and tips for shopping in your local grocery store. All resources are available in English and Spanish. To get started, check out the following resources: Plan Your Meals Using MyPlate Nutrition Facts, Labels, and Ingredients Picking Your Dairy Picking Your Protein Unit Prices: Healthy Weight and Nutrition View More Resources To view the full list, visit the Nationwide Children’s Hospital website! For other healthy eating tools, read our news post about MyPlate. For extra fun, try Grocery Store Bingo!
April 23, 2021 Art Activities that Encourage Social-Emotional Development Play helps to build social-emotional skills. When children practice social-emotional skills, they gain access to a toolkit of strategies that help them build and maintain relationships; recognize, cope with, and express their emotions; collaborate effectively with others; and more. To encourage the social-emotional development of your young child, add opportunities for art and creative expression into your daily routines! Activity Lists Children naturally explore and practice social-emotional skills during play, and creative art activities are a great way to introduce your child to new topics in a non-threatening, playful way. In addition to exploring social-emotional skills, creative art activities also provide children with opportunities to build their confidence, problem solve, explore their creativity, and more! For activity ideas to get you started, view the resource lists below! Hands-On Activities 5 Art Activities For Social Emotional Learning, Better Kids Art Activities for Social Emotional Learning, Pathway 2 Success 50 Activities that Support Social-Emotional Learning, The Art of Education University Mindful Art Activities for Kids, Empowering Education Online Games and Resources Online Coloring Games, PBS Kids Online Teamwork Games, PBS Kids Online Music Games, PBS Kids
Mindfulness for Children About According to the Greater Good Science Center at Berkeley University of California, mindfulness is the practice of “maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment through a gentle, nurturing lens.” When practiced, mindfulness techniques can relieve stress, decrease blood pressure, and regulate your breathing. Mindfulness techniques also provide opportunities for children and adults to practice self-control, compassion, kindness, and emotional regulation. Mindfulness Guide To help families learn about mindfulness, the New York Times created an online guide for families. The guide explains mindfulness and provides strategies for infants, toddlers, young children, older children, and teenagers. Additional resources are also provided. To learn more, view the guide! Additional Resources To learn more about mindfulness, view the resources listed below: Mindfulness Toolkit, Transforming Education Mindfulness for Kids, Mindful 25 Fun Mindfulness Activities for Children and Teens, Positive Psychology Mindful Art Activities for Kids, Empowering Education Ease your anxious child: 6 simple mindfulness exercises to try today, Motherly Rainbow Relaxation, The Mental Health Teacher Belly Breathing: Mindfulness for Children, The Mental Health Teacher Kids Meditation – Square Breathing (Focus & Calm), MyLife Yoga for Kids!, STORYHIVE Free Smiling Mind App
