We’re collaborating with the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to develop statewide multi-generational mental health systems to treat and prevent early childhood disorders related to trauma and adversity.
Our online graduate certificate in infant and early childhood mental health has been instrumental in facilitating statewide training in trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions. The program also has contributed a developmental perspective to statewide training in early assessment and diagnosis.
In collaboration with DHS, we sponsor interdisciplinary planning meetings and diversity trainings to promote and expand the consultation system.
Minnesota Early Care and Education (MECE) study
We are currently conducting statewide research on child care suspensions and expulsions to develop policies and practices that better support the development of young children in care and directors and teachers who provide care.
The goals of the Minnesota Early Care and Education study are to:
- understand teacher and provider experiences with young children;
- determine rates of suspension and expulsion across the state; and
- identify supports that improve both teacher and child experiences.
Child Welfare Policy and Practice
We also have been working to embed developmental research in child welfare policy and practice.
In a pilot project in Hennepin County, we provided leadership in piloting an evidence-based, trauma-informed Infant Court Team intervention, which aims to reduce caregiving instability and recidivism of infants and toddlers involved in child protection.
We also share research on early development and the impact of trauma with family court judges and attorneys at judicial trainings and conferences sponsored by the Children’s Justice Initiative.