Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >
Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >In 2026, Pennsylvania’s Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) program proudly celebrates 20 years of partnering with child care providers to support young children’s social and emotional well-being.
For two decades, IECMHC has worked side by side with early learning professionals to strengthen classroom environments, support positive teacher-child relationships, and address the social-emotional needs of young children. IECHMC consultants collaborate with Pennsylvania child care providers to offer practical strategies, reflective support, and guidance that helps create nurturing, responsive, and inclusive learning settings.
IECHMC consultants know that supporting young children’s emotional development can sometimes feel challenging. IECMHC is here to help, whether you’re navigating difficult behaviors, supporting a child through big emotions, or looking to build stronger connections in your classroom. Together, IECHMC consultants work with providers and families to prevent suspension and expulsion, promote positive outcomes, and ensure every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn.
What began as a small initiative in just two regions has grown into a statewide, nationally recognized program. With the continued support of the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), IECMHC has partnered with nearly 14,900 early care and education professionals, supported more than 7,400 children directly, and contributed to improved experiences for nearly 60,000 children in classrooms receiving consultation.
How IECMHC Can Support You and the Families You Serve
IECMHC services are available to licensed Pennsylvania child care providers and early learning programs participating in Keystone STARS at no cost. Providers can access support by scheduling an appointment for Virtual Office Hours or requesting a Consultation.
Consultants can work with you in your classroom, offer strategies tailored to your needs, and even help engage families in supportive, consistent approaches for their children.
Supporting Families Together
IECMHC also offers an opportunity to strengthen partnerships with families. When concerns arise, consultants can help you communicate with families, share resources, and connect them to additional supports, including Early Intervention and community-based services, ensuring a team-based approach to each child’s success.
As IECMHC celebrates this milestone, we extend our sincere appreciation to Pennsylvania’s child care providers. Your dedication, compassion, and professionalism are at the heart of every child’s growth and development. Thank you for partnering with IECMHC over the past 20 years to build stronger, healthier environments for children and families across the Commonwealth.
Together, IECMHC and Pennsylvania child care providers will continue to support every child’s social-emotional well-being, one relationship at a time.