The role that Educational Psychology can play in promoting early child development and well-being
Many different practitioners play a vital role in supporting early child development and well-being during the Early Years.
In the two podcasts listed below, Tim interviews two Educational Psychologists from Wales to explore how they are supporting parents and children during this critical period.
First is an interview with Dr Abigail Wright, an Early Years Specialist Educational Psychologist from South Wales:
Joy, Connection and Play in the Early Years: Re-centring our approach to work with parents using hope and humanity with Dr Abigail Wright (buzzsprout.com)
The discussion with Abi discusses her experiences of becoming a parent in the same year that she graduated from her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. The chat meanders between the importance of caregivers and professionals’ perception of them, parenting on a budget in a pandemic and the value of play in the Early Years.
Second is an interview with Dr. Nicola Canale, a Specialist Educational Psychologist from South Wales:
Creating the Fertile Soil for Children to Thrive: How EP’s can support early child development and well-being during the first 1000 days (and beyond) with Dr Nicola Canale (buzzsprout.com)
In this episode Nicola discusses using a dyadic and psychology-informed approach to promote the healthy development of children in their first 1000 days of life. Nicola discusses her journey in psychology, the needs of children in their first 1000 days and the psychology that can be applied to help parents understand and respond to these needs via a multidisciplinary approach.
Further Information:
Agents of Hope is a podcast for anyone interested in Education, Psychology, and social issues. Hosted by a Dr Tim Cox, who has just completed 3 years training to become and Educational Psychologist. The podcast aims to engage in long-form critical discussion about issues that arise in the field of applied psychology. To listen to more of his podcasts visit: Agents of Hope (buzzsprout.com)
Other News
Lunchtime Skills Box Session with Rebecca Chilvers
Thursday 23rd April 1.00PM - 2.00PM
Supporting World Infant, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Day
Not alone in NICU: A Compassionate Companion for Parents of a baby in Neonatal Care’
Join Rebecca Chilvers, Consultant Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in independent practice for a powerful Skills Box session exploring the impact of the neonatal environment on babies and families, approaches that empower parents, and ways to support early relationships under stress. Learn how to help families navigate the transition into parenthood in NICU and make sense of their experiences as their baby grows.
✨Today’s the Day! The AiMH UK National Conference is Here ✨
We’re excited to come together today for the AiMH UK National Conference, where practitioners, researchers, key workers and leaders in infant mental health unite to share knowledge, deepen understanding, and strengthen support for babies, young children, and their families.
This conference is a powerful reminder of why our work matters — building foundations for healthy relationships, resilience, and lifelong wellbeing.
Looking forward to a day of inspiring speakers, meaningful conversations, and connection across our community.
Let’s make it one to remember! 💛👶🧠
AiMH UK Autum Newsletter
AiMH UK Autumn Newsletter 2025
Discover the latest updates in the AiMH UK Autumn Newsletter! Packed with news, upcoming events, and latest IMH updates to support infant mental health professionals. Stay informed and connected with the AiMH community!
AiMH UK Newsletter – Summer Edition
Welcome to the AiMH UK Summer newsletter, where we share updates, insights and opportunities from across the infant mental-health field.
New Online Course: Babies in Mind – Why the Parent’s Mind Matters
Now 30% off for members!
AiMH UK, in collaboration with the University of Oxford, invites you to join this premium online course featured on the FutureLearn Website
The Fatherhood Institute – ‘Looking out for Dad’ Campaign
The Fatherhood Institute has launched an important new campaign, ‘Looking Out for Dad’, calling on the UK government to prioritise fathers’ health and well-being. Add your name to their letter addressed to the Secretary of State for Health, Wes Streeting.
TODAYS THE DAY!
Announcing the AiMH UK Awards Winners!
A huge congratulations to all the winners!
Your dedication and invaluable contributions are making a profound impact on infant mental health and positively transforming the lives of families across the UK!
President Jane Barlow re-elected onto the 1001 Days Steering Group
The 1001 days movement is a group of organisations and professionals working together to campaign about the importance of the emotional wellbeing of babies.
Congratulations on your re-election - from All at AiMH UK
New Best Practice Factsheet on Infant Sleep
Now available to view and download for Members.
This BPG Factsheet considers infant sleep through the lens of infant mental health. It examines the current state of evidence with regard to infant sleep, and draws on a multi-disciplinary literature intended to help practitioners promote Neuroprotective Developmental Care when supporting infants and parents.
AiMH UK AGM, Awards Ceremony & Presentation
Join us in celebrating the AiMH UK Awards, a tribute to excellence in infant mental health and hear from Professor Jane Barlow, focusing on safeguarding babies and promoting their emotional well-being for our latest Best Practice Factsheet
Victory for the Neonatal Leave Campaign! · Change.org
Some Lovely news! 🙂
t’s inspiring to see positive change happen for such an important cause. Neonatal leave can make a real difference for families dealing with premature births, offering them the time and support they truly need during those critical early moments. This victory will no doubt bring relief and hope to many parents and caregivers. 🌟
Read the article here: https://www.change.org/p/extend-parental-leave-for-parents-of-premature-babies/u/33187309
AiMH UK Events Coming in 2025 – Save the Dates!
We are delighted to share our lineup of events for 2025.
Whether you’re new to AiMH UK or a long-standing member, these events provide valuable opportunities to learn, engage, and collaborate with others passionate about infant mental health.
Become a
member
Join AiMH UK and your local hub to develop your knowledge, skills, and confidence, and access a wealth of specialist information on the AiMH UK website.
Sharing expertise on how we work with infants and their families increases the effectiveness of our work.
Team/Organisation Membership
Elevate your team’s commitment to infant mental health with our new Team Membership rate. Get all the benefits of our Qualified Professionals annual rate, at a discounted price per person. Available to 5 or more practitioners joining at the same time and working within a team or organisation.
Contact us to discuss other packages and discounts.
AIMH UK
Donations
We’re using JustGiving, for donations to AiMH UK. Your donation enables us to continue our work, promoting the importance of infant mental health and making a real difference to improve outcomes for parents, babies and toddlers.
Thank you for making a difference!