Rooted in Relationships Receives National Recognition for Pioneering Efforts in Advancing Childhood Mental Health

Rooted in Relationships (RiR), an initiative of Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (Nebraska Children), is a cornerstone of Nebraska’s efforts to transform early childhood mental health. By fostering collaboration with communities, RiR equips childcare providers with essential training and coaching. These efforts empower providers to equip children with crucial social-emotional skills, creating a foundation for lifelong success. The initiative underscores the importance of nurturing the mental health and well-being of Nebraska’s youngest residents and their caregivers.

In Nebraska, there’s been a noticeable rise in challenging behaviors among young children in childcare settings. Providers report spending considerable time addressing tantrums, hitting, biting, and other disruptive behaviors, which detract from valuable play and learning opportunities. In severe cases, providers have had to resort to expelling these children, leading to burnout and turnover in the field.

To address these challenges, the RiR initiative was created, adopting evidence-based practices. This initiative equips providers with tools and support from the RiR team and coaches to help children learn appropriate ways to express emotion and behave positively. By reinforcing these lessons, RiR aims to complement the values and teachings children receive at home, ensuring they make positive decisions as they grow.

For over a decade, Rooted in Relationships has dedicated itself to fostering meaningful connections among communities, early childhood professionals, and families. Inspired by the success of the Pyramid Model, RiR set out to effect systemic change, empowering both communities and providers.

National Recognition for Pioneering Efforts

Rooted in Relationship’s pioneering work earned national recognition as one of five exemplary initiatives in a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) report. This recognition underscores RiR’s pioneering efforts in early childhood mental health.

“Rooted in Relationships has been dedicated to supporting early childhood mental health across the state. We work both on a statewide level and within local communities, fostering strong partnerships that empower us to nurture the well-being of young children, their families, and caregivers, including child care providers,” shares Sami Bradley, Vice President Early Childhood Mental Health at Nebraska Children.

The national summary emphasized five critical areas:

• Building strong relationships between providers, families, and agencies.
• Prioritizing workforce well-being through self-care and capacity-building.
• Ensuring accessible and empowering services for families.
• Leveraging data for decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Securing sustainable funding for long-term impact.

To learn more, access the Rooted in Relationships case study or explore all case studies.

Rooted in Relationships is in its second decade of transformational work. Recently, the initiative paused to reflect on the first decade’s impact, gathering stories and reflections from past and present colleagues who have been integral to its mission. As RiR moves into its next phase, it acknowledges its journey thus far and celebrates its progress. Insights from various stakeholders highlight RiR’s influence and pave the way for continued success in the years ahead.

Relationships at the Core

At the heart of RiR’s philosophy is fostering strong relationships between providers, families, and agencies. These connections strengthen community ties and ensure that families and professionals have the resources they need to support children effectively.

Evidence-Based Practices

RiR’s partnership with communities has enabled the successful implementation of evidence-based practices, such as the Pyramid Model, which enhances the social-emotional development of children from birth through age eight. Long-term plans are also developed to influence early childhood systems.

Professional Growth Through Endorsement

Through a partnership with the Nebraska Association of Infant Mental Health, RiR has opened new pathways for professional development. Early childhood professionals can now earn nationally recognized endorsements, which have reinforced the expertise and confidence of those working with young children.

The association endorsed 54 professionals statewide reinforcing the expertise and confidence of those working with young children.

Navigating Challenges: COVID-19 and Beyond

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unique challenges to early childhood providers. RiR leveraged its network to offer problem-solving support and adapted resources to meet the evolving needs of families and providers. By doing so, it reinforced the resilience and effectiveness of early childhood mental health services.

Making a Difference

One of RiR’s most significant achievements has been elevating the professionalism of early childhood providers. From three pilot communities in its first year to 17 collaborative hubs at various stages of implementation, expansion, and sustainability, the initiative’s growth underscores its impact and the ongoing need for expansion.

Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future

Through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, Rooted in Relationships has left an indelible mark across Nebraska, enriching the lives of countless children and their caregivers.

Looking forward, Rooted in Relationships remains committed to prevention and early intervention. By fostering strong, supportive relationships, the initiative remains dedicated to shaping the lives of Nebraska’s children and building a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Building on a strong foundation, Sami Bradley, looks forward to another decade of impact.  “We are constantly exploring new opportunities to expand our support across the state. As we look to the future, we are committed to continuing to develop innovative approaches to support children and families, while ensuring the sustainability of the impactful work we’ve already accomplished with our partners,” shares Bradley.

Learn More About Rooted in Relationships

Rooted in Relationships is a comprehensive early childhood initiative that is part of a larger prevention portfolio with Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. This early childhood initiative collaborates with c communities to implement evidence-based practices that enhance the social-emotional development of children, birth through age 8. To learn more, visit Rooted in Relationships.

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