“Nurturing Mental Health in Infants and Young Children”
As parents, it’s easy to zero in on our child's physical health—making sure they’re eating well, getting exercise, and growing as they should. But let’s not forget: mental health is just as important, even from day one. From the moment they’re born, a child’s emotions, behaviors, and relationships start shaping the building blocks of their mental well-being. So, what can we do as parents and caregivers to support healthy emotional development right from the start?
Mental health in young children is shaped by a mix of genetics, cultural norms, and life experiences. Those early years are critical—every cuddle, every reassuring word, every moment of play helps lay a foundation. And at the center of this development? The relationships children have with us, their parents and caregivers.
Creating a safe, predictable environment where a child feels understood and loved makes all the difference. Responding to their cries, talking with them about feelings, or simply staying calm when life throws curveballs helps kids learn to manage their emotions too. They watch and learn from us—when we handle stress calmly, they pick up on that and start building their own emotional toolkit.
When to Recognize a Child May Need Extra Support
For the most part, children navigate their emotions and behaviors in ways that let them grow, learn, and connect with others. But sometimes, things can feel a bit off-track. In fact, around 1 in 6 young children might experience emotional or behavioral challenges that interfere with their development. So, how do you know when it’s more than just a passing phase?
Here are a few signs to watch for:
- Separation anxiety- so intense that your child can’t bear to be apart from you, even briefly.
- Frequent tantrums- that involve hitting or breaking things multiple times a day.
- Big emotional outbursts- that seem out of proportion, like crying, yelling, or hitting when they feel anxious or upset.
While it’s completely normal for young kids to have emotional ups and downs, persistent or extreme reactions may be a sign they need extra support. These behaviors are often connected to how their brain processes emotions, and getting help early can make a big difference in their growth and well-being.
How Pediatric Care Can Help
If you’re worried about your child’s emotions or behavior, you’re not alone—and there’s help. Pediatric primary care clinicians aren’t just focused on physical health; they’re trained to support your child’s mental health too. When you bring up your concerns, your child’s doctor may ask questions about their behavior and even your own stress levels. Depending on what they find, they can connect you with resources, offer guidance, or suggest therapies that involve both you and your child.
The great news? Early intervention works. The sooner you start, the more impact it can have. These therapies often teach families new ways to support their child, build on their strengths, and learn healthy ways to manage emotions together.
Parenting can be stressful—no doubt about it. And that stress can affect not just you but your child, too. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, reach out for support. Taking care of your own mental health benefits the whole family.
Remember, your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. By nurturing their emotional foundations, creating a stable and loving environment, and seeking help when needed, we can give our children the best chance to grow up happy, healthy, and resilient.
If you ever have concerns about your child’s development, talk to their pediatrician. Together, we can build the strong emotional foundation every child deserves.
References:
Finelli J, Gleason MM, Thompson LA. Mental Health in Infants and Young Children. JAMA Pediatr. 2023;177(3):324. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2022.5715
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