Parenting During:

The Early Years

Information and resources that may help parents with children between birth and adolescence.

Early Childhood Supports

(Specific to Robertson County)

  • "Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS) is a voluntary program that offers therapy and other services to families of infants and young children with developmental delays or disabilities. Services are provided at no cost to families. TEIS is critically important to supporting the development of Tennessee children with disabilities and developmental delays as they prepare for school."

    To learn more about TEIS visit the TEIS website at https://www.tn.gov/didd/for-consumers/tennessee-early-intervention-system-teis.html

  • Supports children in their overall growth and development. Shine Pediatric Therapy offers feeding therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language pathology. Through these services Shine Pediatric Therapy strives to help children "improve their independence with daily tasks including play, learning, communication, self-care skills, and participation in sports and leisure activities." To learn more about the services offered at Shine Pediatric Therapy visit their website at https://www.shinepediatrictherapy.com.

    Shine Pediatric Therapy offers a developmental checklist to help caregivers make sure their child is meeting developmental milestones. To access their tool visit https://shinepediatrictherapy.developmentchecklist.com.

  • Provides early education to children ages three to five via the federally funded Head Start program. This program is "high quality education that promotes kindergarten readiness through academic and social-emotional wellness."

    To learn more about the Bransford Early Learning School visit their website at https://bes.rcstn.net/services.

Trauma, experienced during the early years of a child’s life can have a significant impact on brain development and overall well-being. Trauma is the greatest predictor of mental illness in adulthood. Events that occur during childhood (birth to 17 years of age) that are potentially traumatic for the child are known as Adverse Childhood Experiences (CDC, 2023).

Trauma

How Early Experiences Impact Brain Development

Illustration from NSPCC (a UK charity) that demonstrates how early experiences influence brand development.

Childhood Trauma and the Brain

Illustration from UK Council on Trauma as to how trauma experienced during the early years of life can impact development and contribute a young person’s reactions.

Additional Resources

For more information on child trauma, the best treatment and practices for trauma, and or other resources that may be of help visit The National Child Traumatic Stress Network.