New masterclass: Understanding infant and child mental health through a ‘whole child’ lens

Emerging Minds and the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) invite applications from practitioners in Australia to participate in a free 120‑minute online interactive masterclass focused on strengthening understanding of infant and early childhood mental health using a whole child (ecological) framework.

Facilitators

• Kathy Moar – Workforce Development Manager, Emerging Minds
• Vicki Mansfield – Practice Development Officer, Emerging Minds

Date and time

There are two date and time options to choose from:

• Thursday 21 May 10:00 am – 12:00 pm (AEST)
• Thursday 18 June 10:00 am – 12:00 pm (AEST)

About the masterclass

The first five years of a child’s life are a foundational and dynamic time for all aspects of their development. This interactive session will support practitioners who work with infants, young children and families to build confidence and practice skills in understanding the ‘whole child’, and how each child’s unique dynamic development occurs within the context of relationships, family, experiences, culture and community.

This masterclass emphasises real-world application, reflective practice and supported practice change, with access to future learning pathways.

Participants will:

• build literacy in infant and early childhood mental health
• explore the whole child (ecological) model of development
• learn about frameworks for observation, assessment and intervention
• reflect on their own professional role in supporting infant and child mental health.

Who should apply

Applications are welcomed from practitioners who work directly with children aged 0–5 years and their families. This may include social workers, early childhood educators, child and family practitioners, maternal and child health nurses, allied health professionals, family support workers, child protection workers and community health staff.

Selection criteria

Applicants must:

• work in an Australian service/organisation supporting infants, children and families
• have direct practice contact with children aged 0–5 years or their families
• seek supervisor endorsement for participation in the masterclass, and commit to specific time for attendance and related activities (successful applicants will need to provide a brief statement with their supervisor’s approval)
• complete pre‑ and post‑session reflection activities
• attend the full 120‑minute online session
• consider case study material, join break-out room discussions and participate in online activities.

Supervisor support is a core component of the program, which includes a short post‑session reflective discussion to support practice transfer within teams.

Selection process

Places are limited. Selection will prioritise practitioners in services working with vulnerable or marginalised communities and geographic diversity, including regional practitioners.

How to apply

Please submit the application form by Wednesday 29 April 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by Wednesday 6 May 2026.