South Africa psychologists learn about infant emotional needs and parent support. Practical CPD courses for early intervention and healthy development.
What are the unique emotional and psychological needs of infants, and how can psychologists support parents in meeting them? In this insightful and practical talk, clinical psychologist Jenny Perkel draws on her extensive clinical experience and her book Babies in Mind to explore the foundational psychological experiences of infants and young children.
Focusing on the parent-infant relationship, Perkel outlines how clinicians can intervene early to promote healthy emotional development. She discusses key presenting concerns, common parental challenges, and the importance of understanding the psychological meaning behind infant behaviours. The talk also highlights practical ways to work therapeutically with the parent-infant dyad, fostering secure attachment and healthy relational patterns from the earliest stages of life.
Sections
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
Describe the emotional and psychological needs of infants and young children
Recognise the importance of early intervention in shaping developmental outcomes
Identify common psychological presentations in infants and young children
Understand how parenting styles and the parent-infant relationship impact child development
Apply relational and therapeutic strategies when working with parent-infant dyads