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SALISBURY, MD---The Lower Shore Child Care Development Center at Salisbury University, in connection with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) announces a new program to promote healthy emotional and social development among pre-school children.

The Lower Shore Early Intervention Program serves children ages birth to 5, their parents and child care providers, early educators, and mental health clinicians.

One service offered through the program is a new telephone “warm line” that parents, early educators, child care providers and clinicians may call for guidance with challenging behaviors. Information on mental health issues, early childhood development, and community resources are also available through the “warm line” at 410-677-6590. The line is operated 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday.

“We want to help others set the foundation for promoting early and positive self-esteem in young children,” said Margo Takacs, LSEIP behavior interventionist. “One of our goals is to help make sure children have the emotional resilience they need to succeed in school and life.”

Trainings for child care providers, parents, early educators and mental health clinicians on mental health topics also are provided monthly through the LSEIP.

The program is designed to improve challenging behaviors and maintain child care placements. According to the MSDE, the care and nurturing given to children before they enter elementary school is critical to their development.

Parents, guardians, child care providers, early educators and clinicians may contact the Early Intervention Team with concerns about a child. Once parental consent has been received, the Early Intervention Team will assess the child in the child care setting and at home to identify troubling behaviors and possible environmental concerns. The Team will then provide brief intervention strategies, education and information or community referrals for continued support and assistance, as needed.

For more information visit the LSCCRC Web site at .