Founded in 2001, COAIMH is a nonprofit (501c3) statewide membership organization run by staff and volunteers who work to promote education and research related to infant and early childhood mental health and, facilitate networking and cooperation among those concerned with the optimal development of infants and infant-caregiver relationships. We also strive to advocate for use of scientifically-based programs of care, intervention, and prevention of mental impairment in infancy and support local and state policies that promote family and infant mental health.
CoAIMH became an official affiliate of the World Association for Infant Mental Health (WAIMH) in 2002, and a state member of the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health (the Alliance) in 2010.
Infant Mental Health is the developing capacity of an infant or young child to:
- Develop close and secure relationships with others
- Actively explore the environment and learn
- Experience, express and regulate a full range of both positive and negative emotions
(Zero to Three Infant Mental Health Task Force, 2011)
Mission
Colorado Association for Infant Mental Health (CoAIMH) is Colorado’s leader in the area of infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH). Our aim is fulfilled through (1) the development and support of the infant and early childhood workforce, and (2) our expertise on Colorado public policy matters that impact young children.
Vision
CoAIMH is comprised of a strong community of providers, policy makers, and researchers that consistently prioritizes the relationships between young children and their caregivers. CoAIMH exists to:
- Create and support connections in the IECMH field by offering:
- Networking opportunities and access to the best quality resources (both people and knowledge);
- Professional development and training across disciplines and throughout the state that is aligned with IECMH best practice standards and competencies; and
- National leadership for other states through cross-state relationships including serving as a resource for other states.
- Establish shared values and culture, and serve the community by offering a clear vision that serves infant and early childhood caregiver relationships. CoAIMH offers advocacy through policy, leadership, expertise, and serves as an influential point of contact in the IECMH community.
Membership in CoAIMH is open to all disciplines and to all those who reside in Colorado and can provide evidence of some expertise in and dedication to the field of infancy.
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