Week of the Young Child (April 5-11) offers a vital opportunity to spotlight the interconnectedness of early learning, mental health, and community support. When our youngest citizens are emotionally and socially robust, they are better equipped to learn, engage with peers, and become active, thriving members of society. In this spirit, it is imperative that we view this week not only as a celebration of early childhood education but also as a call to prioritize mental health care from the very beginning of life.
It is known that mental health conditions can begin early in life. Recent statistics reveal that nearly 20% of children between the ages of 2 and 8 in the United States have been diagnosed with a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. These early challenges can significantly impact learning, social interactions, and long-term well-being. Proactive mental health care in early childhood is more than a remedial measure—it is a critical investment in the resilience and future success of our children. When children are supported early on, they develop the emotional tools necessary to navigate life’s challenges and foster a lifelong love of learning.
Located in Central Massachusetts and serving the New England region, TaraVista Behavioral Health Center plays a transformative role. By offering specialized services for young children (5-12) and their families, as well as adolescents and adults, TaraVista ensures that mental health challenges are identified and addressed early. Our work not only helps individual children overcome obstacles but also contributes to a stronger, more connected community where every child can flourish. Through comprehensive, compassionate care, TaraVista stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the realm of early childhood mental health.
Recognizing that the well-being of children starts with those who care for them, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has recently announced a forward-thinking partnership between the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) and the Office of the Child Advocate (OCA). This collaboration introduces the Strategies for Trauma Responsive Early Educator Training (STREET) initiative—an innovative program offering both virtual and in-person trainings. Designed specifically for early educators, STREET equips them with essential skills in social-emotional learning and trauma responsiveness, ensuring that every educator is prepared to support the nuanced mental health needs of young children. Such initiatives not only validate the critical role of early educators but also create an environment where every child can feel safe, understood, and empowered to thrive.
As we observe Week of the Young Child, let us embrace a dual focus: celebrating early education and elevating mental health as a cornerstone of child development. By continuing to support initiatives like STREET and institutions like TaraVista Behavioral Health Center, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing well-rounded, resilient children. When our educators are well-trained and our support systems robust, we create a future where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
In a time when mental health challenges are on the rise, let this week remind us that every child’s emotional well-being is a community priority. Together, through dedicated care, innovative training, and unwavering support, we can ensure that the next generation is not only educated but also emotionally empowered to lead the change for a healthier tomorrow.
Sheila Crowley is the Hospital Administrator/Chief Operating Officer of TaraVista Behavioral Center, a 122-bed specialty hospital located in the Central Massachusetts community of Devens that provides acute inpatient psychiatric care to adults, adolescents, and children. With its sister hospital in Western Massachusetts, MiraVista Behavioral Health Center, it supports thousands of individuals annually. TaraVista opened its doors to its first patients in 2016, and Holyoke-based MiraVista in 2021. MiraVista provides inpatient psychiatric care to adults and adolescents and outpatient substance use services. Together, the Vistas provide care to thousands of individuals annually.
