In the first few years of life, children undergo rapid social, cognitive and emotional development that is crucial for their school readiness and ability to be productive adults. According to the 2010 Census and current research, between 17,000 and 61,000 Kansas children age 0-5 may have a mental health disorder that affects their development.
In Kansas, early childhood mental health services are delivered through a complex system of early childhood and mental health organizations, as well as providers of child care, health care and child welfare.
This special report outlines information on the types of early childhood mental health services in Kansas and the availability of services in regions of the state.
Funding for this project was provided by the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, a philanthropy based in Hutchinson, Kansas.