As a field catalyst for early relational health (ERH), Nurture Connection is excited to share this free animated video learning series from our partners at Michigan’s Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation. The learning series – “Early Relational Health Together” – was co-designed with parent leaders and families to elevate the importance of simple but effective practices and interactions that support healthy relationships between babies, toddlers, and their caregivers.
The series features three animated video modules (in English and Spanish) covering the science and heart of early relational health, the values that guide a relational approach, and how families and providers can work as true partners. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, home visitor, childcare professional, or early childhood specialist, this series was made for you. A team of parent leaders co-led development alongside practitioners, and over 3,000 parents and providers contributed their voices to a survey that shaped the content. That lived experience is woven into every module.
How Each Module Works
Every module guides you through four thoughtfully designed steps and moves from new ideas all the way to real change in your everyday interactions:
Know: Each module opens with new ideas and research to think about: accessible, meaningful content grounded in the science of early childhood development and the wisdom of families.
See: Animated videos bring the ideas to life showing what early relational health looks like in real moments between caregivers and young children, and between families and providers.
Reflect: Thoughtful questions invite you to pause and wonder and connect the learning to your own experiences, relationships, and roles. Separate reflection prompts are offered for parents and for providers.
Take Action: Practical steps you can put into practice right away from sharing the series with your network, to setting up informal conversations with families, to reflecting on who belongs on your team.
Explore the full ERH Together Learning Series:
Module 1: What Is Early Relational Health?
Module 2: What Are the Core Values of Early Relational Health?
Module 3: “We’re On The Same Team”
- Access the ERH Together Learning Series modules in Spanish at this link.
- Read reflections from Mary Mackrain on the series’ development and hopes for how families and providers can use this learning series.
- Learn more about Michigan’s Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC)