Professional development

ZERO TO THREE expert Dr Mike Sherman presents unique ECEC learning opportunity

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Freya Lucas

Sep 04, 2024

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Dr. Mike Sherman, Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Clinical Consultation Manager for Safe Babies, a program of ZERO TO THREE, will be presenting a unique professional learning opportunity for the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector in November.

The 2024 Early Childhood Court Teams Forum with Dr Mike Sherman is being presented by the The Tweddle Foundation, and will be of interest to those who wish to learn more about developmentally informed, trauma-responsive, and relationally focused practices that contribute to child and family well-being.

Although contextualised to the child welfare and children’s court systems, the sessions will have a lot of overlap with the work of ECEC, and will be beneficial for those who work with children and families who have lived experience of the court and welfare systems.

Dr Sherman’s session will be followed by a panel discussion that demonstrates the efficacy of the Early Childhood Court Teams model through a case study, demonstrating the journey of a family through the process of an infant court intervention, including assessments, and treatment with Child Parent Psychotherapy.

Safe baby court teams are multidisciplinary groups focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of infants, toddlers and young children who are at risk due to parents involved with the courts, and experiencing issues such as substance abuse, neglect, or family violence. Teams consist of professionals from various fields including early childhood, early parenting, social work, child welfare, justice, healthcare, mental health, and legal sectors. They conduct thorough assessments of the child's environment, family dynamics, and parental capabilities to determine risks and protective factors. Safe baby court teams prioritise early intervention to prevent further harm to the child and to address underlying issues within the family. They provide support and resources to parents, including access to substance abuse treatment, early parenting education, therapy, and housing assistance.

The first few years of life are critical for a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Any disruptions or trauma during this period can have long-lasting effects. Early identification of risks and early intervention can prevent further harm to the infant and mitigate the negative impacts on their development. “Many ECEC services incorporate trauma-informed approaches to support the emotional and psychological needs of infants in their care,” the Foundation’s Chair Dr Nicole Milburn said.

“This forum will strengthen practice and help educators understand the child and family through a developmentally-informed and relational lens.” Event Details Date: Wednesday, 13th November

Location: Citadines on Bourke Street, Melbourne

Time: 1pm for a 1.30pm start – 5pm (includes refreshments and afternoon tea)

Cost: $125 Early Bird (by 30th Sep) / $150

Tables of 8 or individual bookings with limited spots available

Contact Kerrie Gottliebsen at (03) 9689 1577

More information and Eventbrite link Professional Development - Tweddle

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