Primary caregivers should have the capacities to be attuned, consistently meet their child’s needs, and nurture healthy attachment, though these relationships are often dependent on the caregiver’s own mental health and well-being.
Healthy development isn’t always a clear path for infants and toddlers. Early identification and intervention for children with developmental delays or disabilities can improve cognitive and social skills, lead to higher achievement and greater independence and promote family competence and well-being.