Educators will be able to access virtual services through a new program supported by the funds.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — A $395,000 grant to help expand behavioral health services in early childhood has been given to the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP).
The Michigan Health Endowment Fund award will be used to make starting the Virtual Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation program easy, allowing parents and educators across our state to take advantage of services, according to MiLEAP.
“The need for strong behavioral and mental health supports for our youngest learners has never been greater,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “In many communities, infant and early childhood mental health consultation is available to only a fraction of the providers who need it. This grant allows MiLEAP to expand availability, support the educators who serve young children every day, and help more Michigan families overcome barriers to essential care.”
More trained social emotional experts, consultations and other services will be available to help guide educators in supporting the social and emotional needs of developing minds.
These services are virtual, which can expand access to under-served areas, like rural districts or where in-person services are not available.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will help carry out these partnerships as it currently operates infant and early childhood mental health consultation services in 42 counties.
“Supporting the mental and emotional well-being of young children is foundational to lifelong health,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “By partnering with MiLEAP to expand virtual infant and early childhood mental health consultation, we are ensuring early childhood educators can access timely, expert support when they need it most.”
MiLEAP hopes to have the Virtual Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation up and running over the next two years.