This Credential, begun in 2011 is based on the Early Childhood Family Mental Health Competencies – Intermediate Level. It is for professionals currently working with young children (ages birth to 8) and their families in the classroom or other group setting, as a home visitor, or as a consultant. Candidates may come from different disciplines- education, health, child care, social services, or mental health. To begin the credential process you need to-
- a) be working with children and families for at least 3 years;
- b) have completed education (minimum 21 credits in related fields),
- c) have 3 years or more of work experience with young children and their families, and
- d) have completed training in the last five years in the competency areas.
To complete the credential process applicants work individually with a Reflective Practice Consultant (RPC) and create a professional portfolio documenting their competence. See the sidebar on this page for detailed information and forms related the Credential.
The competencies and the credential are based on 6 competency areas:
- Philosophy and Professional Orientation
- Family systems
- Child Development (0-8)
- Child Assessment
- Addressing Challenges
- Systems Resources
Benefits of this credential include:
- gaining additional skills and knowledge in working with all young children birth to 8 and their families, and recognition for your specialty knowledge and skills in early childhood mental health. You will be an even more effective partner with licensed mental health clinicians who work with you.
- earning the credential while you work. The education, skills, knowledge and experience you already have can count toward meeting the credential requirements. The credential process is a flexible individualized pathway.
- Employers and the Child Development Division (CDD) value professionals with this credential. CDD is prepared to pay a Recognition bonus to those who achieve it.
Contact Northern Lights Career Development Center if you are interested in applying.
The Vermont Northern Lights Career Development Center works with many partners to unify and enhance the professional development system for early childhood and afterschool professionals in Vermont. It is funded by a grant from the Child Development Division of the Vermont Agency of Human Services. The Community College of Vermont (CCV) and the Vermont Child Care Industry and Careers Council (VCCICC) are co-grantees.
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