It is so important to focus on a child’s shared life experience. But what do you do when caregivers need a stronger starting point? Adam Nugent and Kate Strong are joined by Rebecca Dutson, president and CEO, and Joni Clark, director of development, from The Children’s Center Of Utah. They provide comprehensive mental health care for young children and their families. Now, more than ever, the need is great. Learn how they are able to help so many in the community, how to know if you may need help with their services, and how you can help be a part of this life-changing organization.
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The Children’s Center of Utah provides mental health services for infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers, and their families. In this excerpt, they share where to start if you suspect that your child needs help.
AN: So, how would a parent know that it’s time to come connect with you? What are some key indicators to be able to help our listeners know that it’s time to pay attention?
JC: As parents, you’re the best judge of something not feeling exactly right. And it is difficult when they’re little to understand what’s developmentally appropriate and what might indicate that something more is going on. And that’s the point when we say, “Pick up the phone and start with a call to your pediatrician.” Start having that conversation. We receive referrals from all kinds of individuals and organizations that are early childhood providers, including pediatricians. So, a lot of those conversations start in the doctor’s office.
Recognize that maybe the behavior has changed. For example, a child once was very outgoing and engaging with people, and now they’re withdrawn, and they’re withdrawn for a much longer period of time than usual. Or they’re having outbursts that seem to be more intense and lasting for much longer periods. So, all the things that seem out of the ordinary or just not right to you, we’re going to help you tease through that and help you understand and make sense of what’s happening.
Visit childrenscenterutah.org to learn more.
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