Long Beach Health Department Launches Early Childhood Mental Health Program to Support Families and Childcare Providers
The Californer/10326386

Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach has taken a significant step towards promoting the emotional well-being of young children with the launch of their Early Childhood Mental Health Program. In partnership with local early childhood organizations, the City's Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) aims to provide resources, training, and guidance for families and childcare providers.

This new program builds upon the Health Department's Early Childhood Strategic Initiatives Program and will offer crucial support to those caring for the city's youngest residents. Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating that "our early childhood educators are on the front lines of shaping the next generation." He believes that by strengthening their system of care, lasting change can be created that will extend far beyond the classroom.

From September 2025 to June 2026, the Early Childhood Mental Health Program will offer one-on-one consultations to help childcare providers address children's emotional and developmental needs. It will also provide professional development opportunities to expand knowledge and strengthen early childhood education practices. Additionally, parent workshops will be available to equip families with tools and strategies to support their children's well-being at home.

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To kick off the program, a training session will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 6-8 p.m. at Miller Family Health Center. This session will cover early childhood mental health, available resources, expert guidance, and connections to supportive services. Providers and educators are encouraged to register through the Early Childhood Mental Health Workshop registration page.

According to Alison King, Director of the Department of Health and Human Services, this investment allows them "to build lasting support for caregivers, educators, and families." By combining their expertise in early childhood and mental health, they hope to strengthen systems that help children thrive.

With over 30,000 children ages 0-5 living in Long Beach, the City recognizes the essential role that childcare providers play in supporting families and the local economy. Through collaboration and direct support, the Early Childhood Mental Health Program aims to ensure that children grow up healthy, resilient, and ready to learn.

The program is funded by a $1.3 million, 18-month grant awarded in January 2025 by the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative. This competitive grant will expire on June 30, 2026.

For more information about the City's Early Childhood Education Strategic Initiatives Program, community members are encouraged to visit the program's webpage at longbeach.gov/ECEprogram. The City of Long Beach is committed to promoting the well-being of its youngest residents and supporting those who care for them through this new Early Childhood Mental Health Program.

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