Resource Library

The mental health needs of our nation’s children are currently receiving greater attention as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Many circumstances that negatively affect children’s well-being have become more common during the pandemic, including increased parent stress, social isolation of children and their families, and personal loss.2 While efforts to expand supports for the mental health of all children are needed, it is especially important to examine current policies that can promote the mental health of infants and young children, and to consider opportunities to strengthen these policies and their implementation. Positive mental health in the first five years makes a significant contribution to outcomes that help children thrive throughout childhood and beyond. These outcomes include a reduced risk of serious mental health problems, better health-related behavior, and success in school.