DuPage Groups to Host Early Childhood Mental Health Symposium
August 21, 2025
Original coverage in the Chicagoland Journal by Silence DoGood.
A symposium focused on the mental health needs of young children in DuPage County is drawing strong interest, with organizers adding a virtual option after in-person seats filled within a week of the event’s announcement.
The Early Childhood Mental Health Symposium, hosted by Birth to Five Illinois, the DuPage County Health Department, and KidsMatter, will take place Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, at the Morton Arboretum. The gathering aims to highlight local needs and resources for children from birth to age five and their families.
Speakers will include Sarah Martinez, senior instructor at Erikson Institute, who will provide an overview of early childhood mental health trends in DuPage County. Attendees will also have the chance to share their perspectives and help shape future strategies. Continuing education credits will be available for in-person participants.
Valerie Varju, manager of Birth to Five Illinois’ Region 19 Council, said the symposium builds on a 2024 countywide needs assessment that found significant gaps in services. “Though our county has many strengths in this area, there is so much more we can do to address the mental and behavioral health needs of our youngest community members, especially those in priority populations,” she said.
DuPage County Health Department Executive Director Adam Forker added that early investments will have long-term benefits. “While DuPage County continues to prioritize the health and well-being of our residents, we still need more early childhood services, specifically for children from birth to age five,” Forker said. “It is inspiring to see so many partners come together to build a plan and act on this important issue.”
Nina M. Menis, CEO of KidsMatter, said the event reflects a shared commitment to children and families. “We are eager to connect, listen, and partner through this event to enact real change in our communities,” she said.
The symposium runs from 8 to 11 a.m. Sept. 3. Members of the public can RSVP to attend virtually at bit.ly/3IxbvOt. Limited in-person seating remains available for press covering the event.