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22nd Annual CT-AIMH Spring Conference

2026


Celebrating Neurodiversity through the Lens of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health 

It is important to recognize and embrace neurodiversity as a fundamental aspect of human development. By viewing neurodiversity through the lens of infant and early childhood mental health, we can create environments that not only accept but also celebrate the unique qualities of every child. Prioritizing this approach establishes a strong foundation for resilience, growth, and inclusion from the earliest stages of life. 
Target audience: CT-AIMH welcomes the many disciplines that contribute to relationship-focused work with infants and their families: early interventionists, early care educators, therapists, clinicians, home visitors, social workers, nurses, doulas, psychologists, physicians, and many more.


Presenter:

Kris Barnekow, PhD, FAOTA, OTR/L, IMH-E®

Dr. Barnekow serves as the Special Initiatives Coordinator at WI-AIMH and is Associate Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM). She received a baccalaureate degree in Occupational Therapy and a master’s of science degree in Human Learning and Development from UWM. She received a doctorate of philosophy in the Therapeutic Science track, Department of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she studied maternal-infant attunement. She was nominated to the American Occupational Therapy Association Roster of Fellows in 2023, for “pioneering occupational therapy’s role in infant mental health”. Dr. Barnekow is endorsed by the National Alliance for Infant Mental Health and provides reflective practice consultation to early intervention providers in Wisconsin and California.


Date:

Thursday, May 14, 2026

8:30am- 12:30pm

*Breakfast provided*



Location:

The Woodwinds

29 Schoolground Rd. Branford CT 06405


What will be included:

  • 3 NASW/CEC Approved
  • Certificate of Attendance
  • Simultaneous Spanish Interpretation will be available
  • Door prizes!

Partners/Vendors:

Discovery Toys

A Special Thank you to the following Sponsors:

CT-OEC

CT-DSS

CT- DCF

Please send payments by May 7, 2026. There will be no refunds after May 7, 2026.