Good family mental health is even more essential to a child's overall development than many realize. Here's yet another reason to become a close observer of young children and to develop a warm and caring relationship with families.
Researchers at University of British Columbia, Harvard University and the Child & Family
Research Institute found that untreated maternal depression can negatively impact their babies' ability to learn the sounds of language. This is a significant finding as reading and academic success are tied to a child's vocabulary and language skills. Early childhood educators are often seen as "experts" and are asked for advice on all sorts of parenting topics. Our relationships with families puts us in a unique position to make suggestions and refer them to support services. You just might be the one to notice that a new mother is showing signs of possible depression. If you share a trusting relationship, you may be able to ask her how things are going, and advise her to talk to her doctor about how she feels.
Early childhood educators have long been advocates for family support services. State officials, superintendents and school boards who wish to raise "test" scores might do well to support laws and funding for postnatal follow up care of new mothers.
Read the article:
Depressed moms alter language development in babies
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