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KIDS COUNT Data Center
The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT® is a premier source of data on children, youth and families in the United States. Find a wide range of statistics and indicators…
Facts for Families from the AACAP
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry’s (AACAP) Facts for Families provide concise and up-to-date information on issues that affect children, teenagers, and their families.
Jordan Porco Foundation-Hartford, CT
The Jordan Porco Foundation is committed to preventing suicide in the high school, college, and college entry student population. Through awareness, education, and innovative programming, JPF is challenging stigma around mental…
Family Educational Materials-SAMHSA
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers facts sheets on anxiety disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, first episode psychosis, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). SAMHSA developed…
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Since its inception,…
Prevent Suicide Connecticut
Since January 2012, the CT Suicide Advisory Board (CTSAB) has functioned as the single state-level suicide advisory board in CT that addresses suicide prevention and response across the lifespan. It…
American Foundation For Suicide Prevention
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) raises awareness, funds scientific research and provides resources and aid to those affected by suicide.
The Cerebral Palsy Group
Cerebral Palsy Group is a national organization that was created so that it may serve the individuals and families who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. They are here to…
A Guide to Autism Awareness
This webpage provides important information about Autism and helps raise awareness about the issue.
What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious
Excellent pointers on how to help your child who is experiencing anxiety.
Understood for Learning and Attention Issues
This excellent resource was developed by 15 nonprofit organizations who have joined forces to support parents of the one in five children with learning and attention issues throughout their journey.…
The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds
The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds at Massachusetts General Hospital is a web-based resource that educates parents and other caregivers about the psychological development and emotional well-being of children, adolescents,…
2019 KIDS COUNT Data Book
The annual publication focuses on trends in child well-being.
Spanish Version of Children of Incarcerated Parents Library
The Spanish edition of the Children of Incarcerated Parents Library (CIPL) is now available, and is part of the ongoing collaboration between CT Parent Power and Church World Service (CWS)…
OCD Connecticut-An Affiliate of OCD International
This website connects people, identifies areas of need and helps create solutions for the best care and support for people living with OCD and their families.
Autism Speaks List of Websites For Families
Autism Speaks has put together a list of important resources for families. To go directly to this webpage please click on the link below.
National Autism Awareness Month Resources
April is National Autism Awareness Month! Click the links below to read about the information and resources kidsmentalhealthinfo.com provides on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Autism Services & Resources Connecticut,…
CDC Autism Spectrum Disorder
The CDC has general facts about Autism, information about screening and diagnosis, as well as treatments and resources for families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They provide up-to-date research…
Autism Services & Resources Connecticut, Inc.
Autism Services & Resources Connecticut, Inc. (ASRC) provides training, family support, and does advocacy for those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families. Go to the website to…
Connecticut Autism Speaks
Information and resources all about Autism for Connecticut residents. To go directly to the website, click on the link below.
Cerebral Palsy Guidance
This website provides excellent information about Cerebral Palsy including an overview about the disorder, treatment, therapy options and other helpful information. Please click on the link below to go directly…
Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS)
Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) is a school-based group intervention that has been shown to reduce PTSD and depression symptoms and psychosocial dysfunction in children who have experienced trauma.…
15 Foods You Wouldn’t Expect To Have Dangerous Amounts of Sugar
Nutrition is part of a healthy body and mind. The following article points to the hidden sugar in foods that you would not expect to find! To go directly to…
Children’s Mental Health Network
The Children’s Mental Health Network provides weekly news and unbiased analysis of key issues focused on children, youth and families’ mental health and well-being. To go directly to this website,…
Effectiveness of Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education Programs for Youth
Romantic relationships in adolescence can shape experiences during and after that time period. Marriage and relationship education programs can help adolescents develop the knowledge and skills to form healthy relationships…
Addressing Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders
This guide provides resources for Connecticut residents for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (maternal depression).
Information and Referral Programs for Peripartum Mood Disorders (Maternal Depression)
This brochure provides CT residents with important resources and community help for peripartum mood disorders and maternal depression.
Rehab Guides for Addiction & Mental Health What You Need to Know About Finding Treatment
This guide explains all about the different types of rehab centers and details the options open to you, along with important questions you can ask before you settle on a…
Cerebral Palsy Guide
This website provides information about cerebral palsy, treatment options, community support groups and resources. Please click on the link below to go directly to the website.
MATCH Connecticut Provider Agencies
MATCH-ADTC (Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems) is an evidence-based treatment designed for children ages 7 – 15. Unlike most treatment approaches that…
Medical Issues From Anorexia, Bulimia and Other Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental health disorders that occur in many different forms, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and eating disorders not otherwise specified. The following website provides information…
Court Support Services Division (CSSD)
The Court Support Services Division (CSSD) oversees pretrial services, family services, divorce and domestic violence, probation supervision of adults and juveniles as well as juvenile residential centers including Juvenile Detention.…
CerebralPalsySymptoms.com
The mission at CerebralPalsySymptoms.com is to provide the public with accurate and up to date information on the many aspects of cerebral palsy and other birth injury complications. Their team…
Directions on How to Search For a Provider on the Behavioral Health Partnership Website
Below, please find directions on how to use the provider search tool on the Behavioral Health Partnership website.
Connecticut Providers Trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
The following is a list of Connecticut providers who are trained in the evidence-based treatment called,Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). To search for a Connecticut Provider trained in TF-CBT click…
Connecticut’s Bureau of Behavioral Health and Medicine (DCF)
This site has Information from the CT Department of Children and Families Bureau of Behavioral Health and Medicine. To go directly to this website, click on the link below.
American Youth Policy Forum
Nonprofit, nonpartisan professional development organization based in Washington, DC, provides learning opportunities for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working on youth and education issues at the national, state, and local levels.…
American Speech Language Hearing Association
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for 140,000 members and affiliates who are speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists in the United…
Child and Adolescent Services Research Center
CASRC focuses on mental health care issues for vulnerable children, including children in public service sectors. In addition, CASRC specializes in longitudinal studies of children. To go directly to this…
Center for Mental Health in Schools
Mission and aims are to improve outcomes for young people by enhancing the field of mental health in schools. To go directly to this website, please click on the link…
Child Welfare League of America
An association of almost 1,000 public and private nonprofit agencies that assist over 2.5 million abused and neglected children and their families each year with a wide range of services.…
Child Trends, Inc.
Child Trends is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research organization that studies children, youth, and families through research, data collection, and data analysis. To go directly to this website, please click on the…
Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services
The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) promotes and administers comprehensive, recovery-oriented services in the areas of mental health treatment and substance abuse prevention and treatment throughout Connecticut.
Children’s Defense Fund (CDF)
CDF, provides a strong, effective voice for all the children of America who cannot vote, lobby, or speak for themselves. CDF pays particular attention to the needs of poor and…
Children’s Bureau (ACF): Statistics and Research
The Children’s Bureau seeks to provide for the safety, permanency and well being of children through leadership, support for necessary services, and productive partnerships with States, Tribes, and communities. To…
Effective Child Therapy Online Education
ECT Online Education was developed by Division 53 of the American Psychological Association (Society for Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology) in collaboration with the Center for Children and Families at…
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is the leading patient-directed national organization focusing on the most prevalent mental illnesses. The organization fosters an environment of understanding about the impact and…
Connecticut Office of the Healthcare Advocate
The Office of the Healthcare Advocate can assist Connecticut residents who belong to managed care/HMO health plans. If you have questions about managed care, need to understand the referral or…
Healthy People 2020
Healthy People contains 467 objectives, and 22 topics that focus on mental health. Search the objectives by selecting Topic: mental health and mental disorders to identify them. Use HealthFinder to look…
Healthnet: CT Consumer Health Information Network
University of Connecticut Health Center Library’s consumer health information program for Connecticut residents and public libraries. For CT Residents, if you have a medical question you can call the Healthnet…
Functional Family Therapy
FFT is an empirically grounded, well-documented and highly successful family intervention for at-risk and juvenile justice involved youth. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health
Through a family and youth driven approach, children and youth with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges and their families obtain needed supports and services so that children grow up…
International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF)
The core mission of the IRSF is to fund research for treatments and a cure for Rett syndrome while enhancing the overall quality of life for those living with Rett…
Help For Depression
Help for Depression provides a comprehensive explanation of the various approaches and treatments for depression as a critical starting point for individuals and/or their loved ones. To go directly to this…
KidsPeace
Private, not-for-profit charity dedicated to serving the critical behavioral and mental health needs of children, pre-adolescents and teens. Since 1882, KidsPeace has been helping kids develop the confidence and skills…
KidsHealth.org
If you’re looking for information you can trust about kids and teens that’s free of “doctor speak,” you’ve come to the right place. KidsHealth is the most-visited site on the…
Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford
Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford is a social service agency helping individuals and families deal with life cycle transitions and adversity. Guided by the highest professional standard in counseling,…
MedlinePlus
Contains a selective list of authoritative health information sources for consumers and health professionals on a wide range of mental health and behavior topics. Offers links to Web sites and…
MayoClinic.com
A research tool from the Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical practice dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of virtually every type of complex illness. To go directly…
Wrightslaw Special Education Help
Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. Begin your search in the Advocacy…
The Balanced Mind Foundation
Parent-led, not-for-profit, Web-based membership organization of families raising children diagnosed with, or at risk for, pediatric bi-polar disorder. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Tourette’s Syndrome Association
Founded in 1972 in Bayside New York, the national Tourette Syndrome Association is the only national voluntary non-profit membership organization in this field. Our mission is to identify the cause…
Turningpointct.org
TurningPointCT.org was developed by young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues. Their mission is to empower teens and young adults in their…
Stop Bullying
StopBullying.gov provides information from various government agencies on how kids, teens, parents, educators and others in the community can prevent or stop bullying. If you or someone you know is…
Psych Central
Psych Central is the Internet’s largest and oldest independent mental health and psychology network. Since 1995, it has been run by mental health professionals offering reliable, trusted information and over…
National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS)
NCHS is a good source of information about America’s health. As the Nation’s principal health statistics agency, they compile statistical information to guide actions and policies to improve the health…
National Center for Youth Opportunity for Justice
The National Center for Youth Opportunity for Justice was established in July 2001 to assist the field in developing improved policies and programs for youth with mental health disorders in…
National Center for Mental Health Promotion and Youth Violence Prevention
Provides technical assistance and training to 115 school districts and communities that receive grants from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the U.S. Department of Health…
National Institute on Drug Abuse
NIDA’s mission is to lead the Nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction. This charge has two critical components. The first is the…
Multisystemic Therapy – MST-Evidence-Based Practice
MST is a research-proven and cost-effective treatment for youth with serious behavioral problems. This organization’s mission is to help communities implement MST to improve the lives of youth with anti-social…
Autism Society of America
This group promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families, to be fully included, participating members of their communities through advocacy, public awareness, education,…
Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
Bazelon center’s mission is to protect and advance the rights of adults and children who have mental disabilities. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
This organization is composed of child and adolescent psychiatrists and other interested physicians. Information is provided as a public service to aid in the understanding and treatment of developmental, behavioral,…
About Our Kids
The New York University Child Study Center is dedicated to advancing the field of child mental health through evidence-based practice, science and education. To go directly to this website, please…
Administration For Children and Families
A federal agency funding state,local and tribal organizations to provide family assistance (welfare), child support, child care, Head Start, child welfare, and other programs relating to children and families. To…
Data on Children in Poverty
The National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP) collects and analyzes data and publishes a range of reports and tools on child poverty, early childhood mental health, and related issues.…
America’s Children in Brief: Key National Indicators of Well-Being (2022)
The Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics (Forum) fosters collaboration among 23 Federal agencies that produce and use statistics on children and families. The Forum annually updates all…
Children Without Health Insurance
Nationwide, 4.1% of children under age 18 in the U.S. do not have health insurance coverage. In Connecticut, 3.5% of children (approximately 26,000) did not have health insurance coverage as…
Substance Abuse in Teens
Facts for Families on Teens: Alcohol and Other Drugs This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on…
Schizophrenia
Facts for Families on Schizophrenia This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Promising approaches for behavioral health services to children and adolescents and their families in managed care systems – January 4th, 2010
Since 1995, the Health Care Reform Tracking Project (HCRTP) has been tracking publicly-financed managed care initiatives and their impact on children with mental health and substance abuse (i.e., behavioral health)…
Panic Disorder
Facts for Families on Panic Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Facts for Families on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the…
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Facts for Families on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Facts for Families on Oppositional Defiant Disorder. This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
NCHS Survey Measures Catalog: Child and Adolescent Mental Health
The site provides researchers and policy analysts with an overview of the measures of child and adolescent mental health and use of mental health services in various surveys of the…
Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania)
Facts for Families on hair pulling or Trichotillomania.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
Evidence-Based Practices: Illness Management and Recovery Evidence Based Practices Kit – January 4th, 2010
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers guides for public officials in developing illness-management and recovery mental health programs that emphasize personal goal-setting and actionable strategies for…
Eating Disorders
Facts for Families on eating disorders in teens. This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the…
Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative Fact Sheet – June 1st, 2011
The Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative (SBDI) was developed with support from the MacArthur Foundation; the Judicial Branch’s Court Support Services Division (CSSD), and the Department of Children and Families and…
Depression
Facts for Families on Depression or depressed children.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
Conduct Disorder
Facts for Families about Conduct Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Children’s mental health: strategies for providing high quality and cost-effective care (May 2006) North Carolina Family Impact Seminar, Convened by Center for Child and Family Policy Duke University.
A briefing report about promising strategies for improving children’s mental health services. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Child Health and Development Institute’s Publications
See more publications from CHDI on children’s mental health.
Challenges and Opportunities in Children’s Mental Health: A View from Families and Youth
A report from the National Center for Children in Poverty. This report was based on a meeting of youth and family members of children and youth who experience mental health…
Bipolar Disorder
Facts for Families on Bipolar Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Aspergers Disorder
Facts for Families on Apergers Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
National Resource Center on ADHD: A program of CHADD
The National Resource Center on ADHD: A Program of CHADD was established with funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a national clearinghouse of information…
National Institute of Mental Health
Information on specific mental disorders, diagnosis and treatment, “Mental Illness in America”, Consensus Conference proceedings, NIMH long range plans & research reports, information on the DEPRESSION Awareness, Recognition, & Treatment…
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)-Child Development and Behavior Branch
Part of the National Institutes of Health, the biomedical research arm of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The CDB Branch develops scientific initiatives and supports research and…
National Association of Parents with Children in Special Education
The National Association of Parents with Children in Special Education is dedicated to ensuring that all children and adolescents with special needs receive the best education possible. NAPCSE serves the…
HELPGUIDE.org
Helpguide’s mission is to help people understand, prevent, and resolve many of life’s challenges.They empower people with knowledge and hope. Their goal is to give you the information and encouragement…
Glossary of Symptoms and Mental Illnesses from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Part of the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry website. This site can help you better understand certain mental illnesses as well as point you towards more resources.
Children Who Can’t Pay Attention/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Facts for Families- Children Who Can’t Pay Attention/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder This is a publication from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Pshychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click…
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Works to improve the lives of people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) through education, advocacy, and support. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
National Survey of Children’s Health Data
The National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) supports national efforts to improve the health and development of our children. The U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) funds and directs…
Child Advocate
Child Advocate is a non-profit organization that serves the needs of children, families and professionals while addressing mental health, medical, educational, legal and legislative issues. To go directly to this…
American Psychological Association
This organization is a scientific and professional organization that represents psychology in the United States. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
What can a parent or caregiver expect after they request a referral to special education or related services?
If an evaluation is needed, a team which includes the parents (In Connecticut this is called a Planning and Placement Team, PPT) will meet to share information about the child’s…
Rehab.com and Protalk
This website offers information about addiction, rehab intervention and treatment (state specific) and general information about addiction and behavioral health. Please click on the link below.
Treatment of Children With Mental Illness
This publication is published by the National Institute of Mental Health. This fact sheet addresses common questions about diagnosis and treatment options for children with mental illnesses. Disorders affecting children…
The Connecticut Juvenile Justice System: A Guide For Youth and Families
This guide explains the juvenile justice system and helps parents understand and access needed services for their children. Also available in Spanish (En Espagnol). To go directly to this website,…
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. This law applies to public elementary and…
Ten Basic Steps in Special Education
A brief overview of the process by which children are identified as having a disability and in need of special education and related services and ten basic steps to follow.…
Resources to Help Parents, Teachers and Providers with School Shooting
Attached is a list of resources for parents, teachers and providers to help them cope with the recent school tragedy. These resources provide ways to talk about the traumatic event…
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA—the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, the Individual with Disabilities Education Act, is our nation’s special education law. The IDEA guides how states, school districts, and public agencies provide…
Framework for Delivering School-Based Mental Health Services
School-based health interventions are generally provided using a three-tiered or pyramid approach. The majority of services are provided to the general school population (the base of the pyramid), select students…
Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative One Pager
A one page sheet about the Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative. Files available for selected publication:
Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative Brochure
Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative Program Brochure. Files available for selected publication:
Children Who Won’t Go to School-Facts for Families
This publication offers parents facts about school refusal and separation anxiety. To go directly to this publication, please click on the link below.
Bullying-Facts for Families
Bullying is a common experience for many children and adolescents. Surveys indicate that as many as half of all children are bullied at some time during their school years, and…
Are there Better Alternatives to Seclusion and Restraint? – June 19th, 2013
Over the last several decades schools have become increasingly reliant upon the use of seclusion and restraint to help manage students who display challenging behaviors. For example, the Government Accountability…
Back to the Basics: De-Stressing Today’s Teen – October 1st, 2014
This article discusses the stressors that today’s teen face. It gives advice on how to help your teen with these stressors. To go directly to this article, please click on…
Americans with Disabilities Act-ADA
Passed by the Congress and signed into law by the President in July 1990, the ADA is the first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. The ADA protects…
Statewide Needs Assessment for Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Programs
Needs assessment conducted for Connecticut Department of Public Health on maternal, infant and early childhood Home visiting programs. To go directly to this publication, click on the link below. Files…
Reducing Maternal Depression and Its Impact on Young Children
The National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP)published this issue brief which reflects NCCP’s continuing commitment to ensuring that every low-income child enters school with the skills to succeed, and…
Social Emotional Tips for Providers Caring For Infants
This resource is primarily intended for use by those supporting infants within group settings. This may include staff such as, Early Head Start center-based teachers, family, group and centerbased childcare…
Recommended Practices – Preventing Challenging Behavior in Young Children:
The single best way to address challenging behaviors in young children today is to take steps to make sure that they never occur. While there is no universal panacea for…
Questions About Kids- Center for Early Education and Development
This series of free flyers provide answers to important questions that parents and caregivers have about the psychological development of infants and toddlers. They are written by experts at the…
Questions About Kids- Center for Early Education and Development
This series of free flyers provide answers to important questions that parents and caregivers have about the psychological development of infants and toddlers. They are written by experts at the…
National Registry of Evidence-based programs and practices
Searchable list of promising, effective and model programs. Check out the Programs-at-a-glance matrix to compare programs. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Parent’s Guide to Special Education in Connecticut
This document provides information for parents, guardians and other family members about laws, regulations, and policies affecting special education programs and services. These protections, rights and opportunities will best help…
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA—the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, the Individual with Disabilities Education Act, is our nation’s special education law. The IDEA guides how states, school districts, and public agencies provide…
Maternal Depression Can Undermine the Development of Young Children
Serious depression in parents and caregivers can affect far more than the adults who are ill. It also influences the well-being of the children in their care. The first joint…
EveryDay Ways to Support your Baby and Toddlers Early Learning
Published by Zero to Three this publication gives you some ideas of hte many ways you can support your child’s early learning through everyday activities To go directly to this…
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP)
CPP is an intervention for children aged birth through age 5 who have experienced at least one traumatic and, as a result, are experiencing behavior, attachment, and/or mental health problems,…
Children Who Can’t Pay Attention/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Facts for Families- Children Who Can’t Pay Attention/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder This is a publication from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Pshychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click…
Building Blocks for A Healthy Future – publication by SAMSHA
This Building Blocks for a Healthy Future Guide is designed for parents and caregivers of children ages 3 to 6. It is organized around six main topics to help you…
Bedwetting or Enuresis
Facts for Families on bedwetting or Enuresis This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
Autism
Facts for Families on Autism. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Americans with Disabilities Act-ADA
Passed by the Congress and signed into law by the President in July 1990, the ADA is the first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. The ADA protects…
Violent Behavior – February 9th, 2012
Facts for Families on understanding violent behavior.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Separation Anxiety
Facts for Families on separation anxiety or school refusal.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the…
Teen Suicide
Facts for Families on teen suicide. This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Resources to Help Parents, Teachers and Providers with School Shooting
Attached is a list of resources for parents, teachers, and providers to help them cope with the recent school tragedy. These resources provide ways to talk about the traumatic event…
Self-Injury In Adolescents
Facts for Families on self-injury in adolescents.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
National Survey of Children Exposed to Violence
This Bulletin discusses the National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence (NatSCEV), the most comprehensive nationwide survey of the incidence and prevalence of children’s exposure to violence to date, sponsored…
Healing the Hurt: Trauma-Informed Approaches to the Health of Boys and Young Men of Color – November 1st, 2012
This paper was commissioned by The California Endowment to inform their Building Healthy Communities strategic plan. The purpose of this paper is to promote understanding of the role of trauma…
National Registry of Evidence-based programs and practices
Searchable list of promising, effective and model programs. Check out the Programs-at-a-glance matrix to compare programs. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach with two key components: a behavioral, problem-solving focus blended with acceptance-based strategies, and an emphasis on dialectical processes. “Dialectical” refers to…
Connecticut Paves New Path for Treating Traumatized Children-Hartford Courant Article, May 11, 2012 – May 11th, 2012
An article on the front page of the May 11th Hartford Courant, “Connecticut Paves New Path for Treating Traumatized Children” relates to CHDI’s work with the Department of Children and…
CONCEPT – Trauma-Informed Child Welfare Workforce Development
The Connecticut Collaboration on Effective Practices for Trauma (CONCEPT) will enhance development of a trauma-informed child welfare workforce that can identify, support, and refer children impacted by trauma to appropriate…
CONCEPT – Child Traumatic Stress One Pager
Information about child traumatic stress from the Connecticut Collaborative on Effective Practices for Trauma. National studies estimate that as many as 71% of all children are exposed to a potentially…
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP)
CPP is an intervention for children aged birth through age 5 who have experienced at least one traumatic and, as a result, are experiencing behavior, attachment, and/or mental health problems,…
Abuse Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT)
AF-CBT is an intervention that targets individual child and parent characteristics related to the abusive experience, and the family context in which abuse or aggression occurs. This approach emphasizes training…
Data on Students Served Under Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services to more than 7.5 million (as of school year…
National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence (2014)
The U.S. Department of Justice funded a series of three comprehensive national surveys called the National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence (NatSCEV) in 2008, 2012, and 2014. The survey…
Prevalence and Consequences of Child Victimization
In a nationally representative survey of 12- to 17-year-old youth, 8 percent reported a lifetime prevalence of sexual assault, 17 percent reported physical assault, and 39 percent reported witnessing violence.…
Specific family and environmental factors can make a child more vulnerable to social, emotional and behavioral problems
Neighborhood characteristics and family income can be risk factors that impact young children’s social-emotional health and development. Young children in low-income neighborhoods are more likely to experience behavioral problems than…
Social-emotional problems among young children are common
Between 9.5 and 14.2 percent of children between birth and five years old experience social emotional problems that negatively impact their functioning, development and school-readiness. Approximately 9 percent of children…
Preschool Expulsion Rates Higher than K-12, with significant racial disparities
Multiple studies over the past two decades have found that expulsion rates in public and private preschools nationwide are significantly higher than expulsion rates in K-12 education. According to the…
Neglect is as harmful as other forms of child abuse
Severe neglect appears to be at least as great a threat to child health and development as physical abuse—possibly even greater. This working paper from the National Scientific Council on the Developing…
Early Childhood Data Sources – NECTAC
The Early Childhood Technical Assistance (ECTA) Center puts together a list of databases and reports related to Early Childhood statistics and supports state IDEA Part C and Part B, Section 619 programs…
A Student’s Guide to Balancing Stress
Bestcolleges.com provides an excellent resource for college students on how to manage stress. The guide covers information on how to manage stress as well as getting help with stress and…
Understood for learning and attention issues
This website provides support to parents who have children that struggle with with learning and attention issues. The goal of this website is to empower parents to understand their children’s…
The UCLA Center for Mental Health in Schools
Operating under the auspices of the School Mental Health Project at UCLA, the national Center for Mental Health in Schools was established in 1995. Their mission and aims are to…
Search Institute
Search Institute® is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization committed to helping create healthy communities for every young person. Because they believe that “all kids are our kids,” they create books and…
The Center for School-Based Mental Health Programs (CSBMHP) at Miami University
In existence since 1998, the Center for School-Based Mental Health Programs (CSBMHP) at Miami University operates within the Department of Psychology. Faculty, graduate students and community partners are involved in…
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
Also known as School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports (SWPBS) seeks to improve academic and behavior outcomes for all students by providing a decision-making framework for schools to promote effective instructional and…
The Connecticut Association of School Based Health Centers
This website provides specific information about school-based health centers in Connecticut and also provides general information on child and adolescent health, behavioral health, and school safety. To go directly to…
National Association of School Psychologists
The National Association of School Psychologists represents and supports school psychology through leadership to enhance the mental health and educational competence of all children. To go directly to this website,…
The Connecticut State Department of Education
The Connecticut State Department of Education is the administrative arm of the Connecticut State Board of Education. Through leadership, curriculum, research, planning, evaluation, assessment, data analyses and other assistance, the…
Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning
The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning is a five-year project designed to strengthen the capacity of Head Start and child care programs to improve the…
Promoting First Relationships
PROMOTING FIRST RELATIONSHIPS is a training program at the Barnard Center for Infant Mental Health and Development at the University of Washington. We are dedicated to promoting children’s social-emotional development…
New York University Child Study Center
The Center was founded in 1997 to improve the treatment of child psychiatric disorders through scientific practice, research, and education, and to eliminate the stigma of being or having a…
Circle of Security International
The Circle of Security is a relationship based early intervention program designed to enhance attachment security between parents and children. Decades of university-based research have confirmed that secure children exhibit…
Strengthening Families Program (SFP)
The Strengthening Families Program (SFP) is a nationally and internationally recognized parenting and family strengthening program for high-risk and regular families. SFP is an evidence-based family skills training program found…
Head Start Locator
The Head Start locator is a searchable directory that provides locations, addresses, and driving directions for Head Start programs, centers, and grantees. To find a Head Start or Early Head…
Center for Early Education and Development (CEED)
The Center for Early Education and Development (CEED) at the University of Minnesota has spent over 30 years helping children from infancy through age eight to learn and develop to…
Birth to Three – Connecticut
This is a Connecticut state program that helps parents and caregivers meet the developmental and health-related needs of their infants and toddlers who have delays or disabilities. To go directly…
Help Me Grow – Connecticut
Help Me Grow is a prevention program of the Connecticut Children’s Trust Fund. This program helps to identify children at risk for developmental or behavioral problems and to connect these…
Minding the Baby
MTB is an intensive home visiting program for first-time young mothers and their families living in New Haven, Connecticut. This program brings together a home visiting team including a pediatric…
Postpartum Support International
Postpartum Support International is dedicated to helping women suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, the most common complication of childbirth. They educate family, friends and healthcare…
Child Development Infoline – Connecticut
Child Development Infoline (CDI) is a specialized unit of United Way of Connecticut. Care Coordinators are available to answer the phone Monday through Friday from 8am-6pm, except on holidays. Messages…
Ages and Stages Child Monitoring Program – Connecticut
The Ages & Stages Child Monitoring Program offered by Help Me Grow, can help you learn about your child’s development and identify potential delays as early as possible. The Ages…
Early Intervention
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities website provides a detailed explanation of the “early intervention” system. This site covers the basics of understanding early intervention as well as…
Healthy Eating
This publication from KidsHealth talks about five of the best strategies to improve nutrition and encourage smart eating habits in your children. To go directly to this website, click on…
Tips and Tools on Healthy Nutrition
The Zero to Three website has put together helpful resources for parents and caregivers on how to establish healthy eating habits in young children.
Challenging Behavior Tips and Tools
Zero to Three publishes very helpful tips and facts about how to handle challenging behavior in young children. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC)
A national technical assistance consortium working to support states, jurisdictions, and others to improve services and results for young children with disabilities and their families. To go directly…
Connecticut Association for Infant Mental Health – CT-AIMH
Connecticut Association for Infant Mental Health, Inc. began its leadership work in 2001 and received its 501c(3) non profit status in 2009. CT-AIMH offers professional development opportunities to those working…
Center on the Developing Child – Harvard University
The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University was founded in 2006 on the belief that the vitality and sustainability of any society depend on the extent to which…
Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation
The Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation was created through a grant from the Office of Head Start. Our target audience includes: Mental Health Consultants Head Start Program Administrators…
The ABC’s Of Child Development
Website by PBS, The Whole Child devoted to child development. Children grow and develop at different rates. While their pathways through childhood differ, most pass a set of predictable milestones…
Development Milestones – CDC
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list of developmental milestones for your child age newborn to 5. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Infant Toddler Temperment Tool
The Infant Toddler Temperament Tool (IT3) was developed for the Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation, an Innovation and Support Project funded by the Office of Head Start. The…
Head Start
A national program that provides comprehensive developmental services to low-income, pre-school children ages three to five and social services for their families. To go directly to this…
American Academy of Pediatrics
This is an organization dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation
This is a private charitable organization dedicated to helping build better futures for disadvantaged children in the United States They publish, The Kid’s Count Data book that ranks states on…
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness and their families.…
KIDS COUNT Data Online
State by state profiles with different statistics about children. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
The Child Health & Development Institute of Connecticut, Inc.
A public, charitable foundation, the Children’s Fund focuses its resources on developing comprehensive, effective, community-based health and mental health care systems for children and their families. The Child Health and…
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
SAMHSA’s mission within the Nation’s health system is to improve the quality and availability of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services in order to reduce illness, death, disability, and cost to…
National Center for Education in Maternal and Child Health
The National Center for Education in Maternal and Child Health provides national leadership to the maternal and child health community in three key areas of program development, policy analysis and…
Zero to Three
A national, nonprofit organization dedicated solely to advancing the healthy development of babies and young children. To go directly to the website, click on the link below.
Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate
The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate’s mission is to oversee the protection and care of children and to advocate for their well-being. In order to fulfill the responsibilities of…
The State Education Resource Center (SERC)
SERC is a nonprofit agency that serves as a resource for educational research and best practices. SERC provides schools and the community with professional development, information dissemination, training, and technical…
The Connecticut State Department of Education
The Connecticut State Department of Education is the administrative arm of the Connecticut State Board of Education. Through leadership, curriculum, research, planning, evaluation, assessment, data analyses and other assistance, the…
Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital
Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital is a dedicated pediatric hospital with world-class experts who offer a full spectrum of primary and specialized medical care.
Connecticut Children’s Medical Center
Connecticut Children’s Medical Center is dedicated to improving the physical and emotional health of children through family-centered care, research, education and advocacy. It is located in Hartford, CT.
Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC)
CPAC is a statewide nonprofit that offers information and support to Connecticut families of children with any disability or chronic illness age birth to 26. To go directly to this…
African Caribbean American Parents of Children with Disabilities (AFCAMP)
AFCAMP provides parent to parent support; information and referral; training for families and professionals; information on disability laws and services; advocacy for better services; and support at PPT meetings when…
Keep the Promise Coalition
Keep the Promise Coalition is dedicated to advocating for a comprehensive, community mental health system for adults, children and families in Connecticut. The Children’s Committee of the Keep the Promise…
Center for Children’s Advocacy
Lawyers at the Center for Children’s Advocacy operate on the belief that every child, no matter the circumstances, deserves justice, equity and access. The Center promotes and protects the legal…
National Center for Children Exposed to Violence – NCCEV
It is the mission of the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence (NCCEV) to increase the capacity of individuals and communities to reduce the incidence and impact of violence…
CT Parenting website
CTparenting.com is a central hub of useful parenting information brought to you by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. At this one site, you can find thousands of fully…
CDC Parenting Infants Information
Important parenting information is provided by the CDC for infants and toddlers. On this site you will find information about diseases, safety in the home, development of your infant and toddler…
CDC Essentials of Parenting
Essentials for Parenting Toddlers and Preschoolers is a free, online resource developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Designed for parents of 2 to 4 year olds,…
Tips and Tools on Brain Development
Zero to Three website publishes a series of handouts abaout your young child and their brain development. Click on the links to access each of the publications. Many of the…
Rehab Info – Trusted Rehab Referrals
RehabInfo.net is a comprehensive guide for the entire treatment process – from spotting issues to finding and enrolling into rehabilitation. It’s also an extensive educational resource that includes up to date…
SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Locator
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) an online Mental Health Treatment Services Locator which helps users search more than 8,000 mental health treatment facilities and programs. SAMHSA…
2/1/01
2-1-1 is an integrated system of help via the telephone – a single source for information about community services, referrals to human services, and crisis intervention. It is accessed toll-free…
Treatment of Children with Mental Disorders (SAMHSA)
Information about how your child gets treatment and where to start. To go directly to this website, click on the link below.
National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP)
The National Center for Children in Poverty is the national leading public policy center dedicated to promoting the economic security, health, and well-being of America’s low-income families and children. Using research…
National Alliance on Mental Illness, CT chapter (NAMI-CT)
NAMI is a national family and consumer advocacy organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with serious mental illnesses and their families. This site is for the Connecticut chapter.…
Connecticut Behavioral Health Partnership (BHP)
The Department of Children and Families and the Department of Social Services have formed the Connecticut Behavioral Health Partnership (CT BHP) to plan and implement an integrated public behavioral health…
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
AAIDD promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To go directly to this website, please click on the link…
Effective Child Therapy
This site was developed to educate the public and professionals about mental health treatments that have the strongest scientific support, and are most likely to work. This site is offered…
Anxiety Disorders Association of British Columbia
The Anxiety Disorders Association of British Columbia (AnxietyBC™) is a non profit organization which was started in early spring of 1999 by a group of concerned consumers, family members, and…
National Center for Children Exposed to Violence – NCCEV
It is the mission of the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence (NCCEV) to increase the capacity of individuals and communities to reduce the incidence and impact of violence…
Clifford Beers Clinic
The Clifford Beers Clinic is a place where thousands of children and their families turn when they are in crisis or need mental health services. They offer a safe haven where…
Traumatic Stress Institute-Klingberg Family Centers
The Traumatic Stress Institute (TSI) of Klingberg Family Centers promotes excellence in trauma-informed services both within Klingberg and to organizations nationally and internationally who treat clients with histories of psychological…
Center for Pediatric Traumatic Stress – Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
The Center for Pediatric Traumatic Stress (CPTS) at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia addresses medical trauma in the lives of children and families. Founded in 2002 as a multidisciplinary intervention…
Parent Child Interaction Therapy
PCIT is a parent-child treatment program that helps parents of children aged 2-7 years old with behavioral problems (aggression, non-compliance, defiance, and temper tantrums). PCIT focuses on promoting positive parent-child…
Anxiety Disorders Association
The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) is the leader in advocacy, education, training, and research for anxiety and stress-related disorders. ADAA leads the way, improving the lives of millions…
EMDR Institute- Eye- Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a form of psychotherapy that uses a structured eight-phase approach to address the past, present, and future aspects of a traumatic or distressing memory that has been stored…
Child First
Child First, developed by Dr. Darcy Lowell, is an innovative evidence-based model which effectively decreases emotional and behavioral problems, developmental and learning problems, and abuse and neglect among very vulnerable…
Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder
From the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry website, this is a resource center filled with information about different mental illnesses. To go directly to this website, please click…
Intermittant Explosive Disorder
Intermittent explosive disorder is characterized by repeated episodes of aggressive, violent behavior in which you react grossly out of proportion to the situation. Road rage, domestic abuse, and angry outbursts…
National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
The mission of the NCTSN is to raise the standard of care and improve access to services for traumatized children, their families and communities throughout the United States. …
What is the difference between evidence-based, best and promising practices in mental health?
Over the past 20 years we have learned a great deal more about which services work best for children who have mental health issues. Services that have been found to…
How do I talk to my child about this?
It is important for parents to be honest and use words your children can understand. A good place to start is by asking your child to talk about what is…
How do I talk to the rest of the family about my child’s issues?
If you talk to your child’s brothers and sisters, use words that are right for their age and that they can understand. Be careful not to burden your other children with too…
How will mental health problems affect my child in school?
How your child acts at school may or may not be affected by his/her mental health issue. It depends upon the type of issue. Many times, it is helpful to…
How do I get support for myself?
Parents and caregivers often say that talking to other parents is one of the most useful forms of support. Connecticut has many family advocacy and support centers where trained parents…
How does my child’s gender impact mental health issues?
Both boys and girls can have mental health concerns and sometimes these issues show themselves in different ways. The way in which mental health issues develop depend on many things, but…
What will other people think if they find out my child has a mental health issue?
It is common for people to worry about what others think and have concerns about the stigma (shame) of mental health issues. Stigma can sometimes get in the way of…
Does this mean my child will have a lifelong problem?
Like other health problems your child may face, many mental health problems take care of themselves with time and the right treatment. It is important to get treatment for your…
Will my child take medication forever?
It is not likely that your child will take medications forever. How serious and what type of diagnosis your child has will affect how long your child will need his/her…
Are my child’s problems caused by something I did?
It is a common feeling for parents to blame themselves for their children’s issues. Children’s mental health issues are a result of many different things including biological (genes), environmental, family,…
What are common side effects of specific medications?
Side effects differ with each medication. Common side effects include symptoms such as drowsiness and changes in appetite. It is best to ask your doctor and/or the pharmacist about the…
Is the medication dangerous?
Medications that have been approved for use for children must go through an intense review by the Federal Drug Association (FDA). All medications have risks and it is important to…
Is the medication expensive?
Medications differ in price and in some cases can be expensive. Most common psychiatric medications are paid for by insurance plans and HUSKY. If your family is getting HUSKY/Medicaid coverage…
What if my child needs medication?
Depending on the type, how serious and how long your child has had the symptoms, your pediatrician or child psychiatrist may prescribe medication for your child. Often, medication is prescribed…
Will the medications change my child’s personality?
Typically, no. Medications will not usually significantly change personality, but should affect your child’s symptoms. This is a common concern for parents because giving your child any medication is always a concern.…
What are the differences between testing, screening, assessment and evaluation?
Testing is a generic term that can be used in different places and often means that a professional, such as a teacher, pediatrician, counselor or special education consultant wants to…
What are the different types of treatment?
There are many types of treatments for children who have mental health issues. Individual outpatient treatment is where your child will see a counselor one or more times weekly to…
What other treatments are there?
Some parents choose faith-based support, recreational activities, native or local healers, or nutritional plans to help with their child’s mental health concerns. Parents must find out whether these treatments have worked…
What questions should I ask the therapist?
The most important question to ask a therapist is about their background and if they have experience working with children, and with children who have had some of the same…
What treatment is best for specific disorders?
The mental health field has come a long way in knowing which treatments work best for some issues and concerns, but there are often not easy answers. If your child…
How do I know if my child needs help right away?
If your child is in crisis and is at risk for hurting himself or others, you should get help right away by calling 911 or get help through the 211…
How do I find a mental health professional?
If you have private insurance, you may need to choose a provider in your network. Families may also choose out of network providers but may have to pay some costs…
What are the differences between different types of therapists – psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, family therapists, nurses and counselors?
There are many types of professionals that provide mental health services to children. When choosing a therapist it is best to seek the services of a licensed mental health professional or…
How do I know when to worry about my child’s mental health?
As the person who cares for your child, you usually know your child better than anyone else. As your child develops and grows, they may have problems from time to time.…
Who do I turn to for help?
It is sometimes hard to know whom to turn to when your child has mental health concerns. A good place to start is your child’s doctor or pediatrician. You can…
What if a child is not in school and the parent or caregiver thinks the child may have a mental health issue or disability?
If a child is less than three years old and it is suspected that he or she may have a disability or significant delays, the child may be referred to…
Where will a child receive his/her special education and related services?
A child who is eligible for special education and related services, if possible, must be educated with his/her non-disabled peers in the general education class in the school that the…
What are some of the laws that protect a child with a mental issue or disability?
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004)The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ensures that all children with disabilities have available to them a free appropriate public education that offers special…
How is progress measured in the IEP?
The IEP must include a statement of how the child’s progress will be measured. An explanation of how parents will be given information of that progress should be included in…
How is an IEP different from a 504 plan?
A 504 plan, which falls under civil-rights law, is a plan to allow students with disabilities to participate freely and safely in school to get the same opportunities as everyone…
What happens if the child is not eligible for special education?
If the PPT team decides that the child is not eligible for special education, the school district must tell the parents and caregivers of this decision in writing and explain…
What is an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP)
If a child is found eligible to receive Special Education services, the IEP is a written plan that describes in detail your child’s special education program. All students receiving special…
What is a Planning and Placement Team (PPT)
A PPT is a made up of certified and / or licensed professionals who represent: The child’s regular education teacher At least one special education teacher An individual who can…
What can a parent or caregiver expect at the first PPT meeting?
The first PPT meeting will document the referral to special education and will discuss the evaluation process. The team will look at information that is already available about how the…
What are the eligibility requirements for special education and related services?
To be eligible for special education and related services a child must be between 3 and 21 years old and have one or more of the following disabilities, determined by…
How can a parent or caregiver request a referral to special education services?
There are two ways that a child may be identified as possibly needing special education and related services: the system known as Child Find (which operates in each state), and…
What can a parent or caregiver expect after they request a referral to special education or related services?
If an evaluation is needed, a team which includes the parents (In Connecticut this is called a Planning and Placement Team, PPT) will meet to share information about the child’s…
What has to happen before a child is referred for special education and related services?
Before a child is considered for a referral to special education services, other procedures and programs must have been attempted with that child and where appropriate, put into place in…
How can a parent or caregiver formally request help for their child through the school?
It is important to find out why a child may be having trouble at school. In some cases, a child may have a mental health issue or a disability. By…
What are the steps to receive special education and related services for a child with a mental health issue or disability?
Meeting the educational needs of a child in school is important to their success. It is important for parents and caregivers to understand the process which can be confusing. There…
What are “school-based mental health services” and who is providing them for the child?
School-based mental health services include a broad range of activities and services, including: formal assessment, prevention strategies, or interventions such as counseling, consultation, and referrals for services and supports in…
How can I get help for my child from my community?
You can get help from your child’s pediatrician or from community mental health providers. To find a qualified mental health professional, you can talk with your private insurance company who…
What are the warning signs that my child might be having difficulty in school due to mental health related issues?
As a parent, you usually know your child better than anyone else. There are a variety of signs that might suggest your child is having difficulties at school. Some possible things to…
I have some concerns, what do I do next?
When you have concerns about your child’s behavior in school or are worried that their mental health problems may be interfering with their academic performance, the best thing to do…
Will my child continue to have problems in school if he can’t get along with other children when he is young?
It is very important to get help for any concerns you have about your child’s ability to play well with others or to respond well to adults. When young children don’t…
What are the different ways of treating my young child’s mental health issues?
For very young children, the treatment typically involves working with parents and their children together. It often includes visiting with parents at home to find out what their concerns are…
My child care has warned that my son may be asked to leave if he continues to harm other children. What should I do?
You may want to talk to your child’s teacher to find out as much as you can about what is going on: when does this harmful behavior occur, who is…
How will a doctor or mental health provider be able to identify my young child’s mental health concerns?
When you meet with your pediatrician or doctor, he/she is going to try to understand your concerns. Your doctor will ask you questions about your child’s symptoms, when they occur…
Do young children remember traumatic events?
Trauma refers to an overwhelming, unanticipated danger or event that cannot be mediated or processed by the individual. Traumatic events are a direct threat to a person’s wellbeing. When confronted…
What are the early warning signs of mental health problems/social and emotional delays?
Some early warning signs can include: the lack of ability to be soothed, lack of regular sleep/awake cycles, and serious issues with feeding. Although all children experience these problems from time…
Where do I go for help when I have concerns?
You do not have to worry alone. If you have concerns about your infant or toddler call your child’s pediatrician as soon as you can. Discuss your concerns and ask if these…
Why do I feel sad and overwhelmed by taking care of my young child? What can I do?
Being a parent or caregiver is hard work and very demanding. Feeling sad and having lack of energy after giving birth is normal for 50-80% of new mothers. Many new mothers will…
What can go wrong with my young child’s mental health?
Some children have temperaments or personalities that make it hard to be a good parent. Their parents and caregivers have challenges in searching for the right way to sooth, comfort, and…
What is Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health?
When we talk about infant/early childhood mental health we mean the early relationships infants and toddlers have with their parents or caregivers and their ability to experience emotion and explore…
What are the signs of healthy development in my young child (birth to 6)?
Here is what to look for in your young child that will show good mental health: Babies are alert and willing to explore toys and play with caregivers. They enjoy being…
How can I support the healthy social and emotional development of my young children (prenatal to six years)?
Parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers can best support good mental health very early in development, even before the baby is born. Good prenatal care is very important to how…
What are some effective treatments available to help my child with traumatic stress?
Treatments that research shows can reduce child traumatic stress are called “evidence-based treatments”. There are many evidence-based treatments available in many states through qualified mental health professionals and agencies. Please…
Where can a parent/caregiver get support or help dealing with child traumatic stress?
There are many resources both nationally and locally (CT) to help parents and caregivers cope and find treatment for childhood traumatic stress. One great resource is called Get Help Now,…
What is a Trauma Screening or Assessment?
A child’s primary care doctor can conduct a short trauma history for the child, or your child can be screened directly by a mental health specialist. Screenings are completed by the…
Do I have to get help for my child who shows signs and symptoms of traumatic stress?
In some cases child traumatic stress symptoms may or may not meet the criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Children can show their PTSD symptoms differently than adults. These PTSD…
What questions should I ask my doctor?
It is important to talk with your primary care doctor about your child’s symptoms to help you determine if your child’s symptoms are unusual or worrisome and if you should…
What are the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children?
Symptoms of PTSD in children (also referred to more broadly as “childhood traumatic stress”) typically fall into four major categories: Traumatic Repetitions Traumatic play Play reenactment Nightmares Flashbacks and dissociation…
How can I help my child deal with his/her reaction to a traumatic event?
If you are concerned about your child, it is best if you consult a qualified mental health specialist who has been trained to work with traumatic stress reactions. If left untreated,…
When should I worry about my child’s reaction to a traumatic event?
It is important to understand that most children will likely develop some stress reactions if they have been the victim of a traumatic experience. In many cases, some acute reactions…
What is Childhood Trauma?
Trauma occurs when a child experiences an intense event that threatens or causes harm to his or her emotional and physical well-being. Some events are more likely to be traumatic…
What are some reactions that my child may have after experiencing a traumatic event?
When children experience a traumatic event, they may react in both a psychological and physical way. Their heart rate may increase, and they may begin to sweat, to feel agitated,…