Young children experience mental health challengesthat impact early learning, social interactions, and theoverall well-being of their families. It is estimated thatbetween 9% and 14% of children from birth to 5 yearsof age experience social and emotional problems thatnegatively affect their functioning and development.1Among babies, signs of depression can includeinconsolable crying, slow growth, and sleep problems.2Mental health challenges among young childrenoccur within the context of early childhood growthand development, during which children develop selfcontroland learn to tolerate frustration.3 For example,although temper tantrums may be developmentallynormal for toddlers, tantrums characterized by selfdestructivebehaviors or aggressive behavior towardpeople or property can indicate that emotional andbehavioral problems are present.4 A young childwho withdraws regularly from social situations andexperiences fear when interacting with others mayhave mental health needs.