INTERVENTION FOR INFANTS AND TODDLERS EXPOSED TO METHADONE IN-UTERO -3 CASE-STUDIES

We present three case studies from a developmentally integrated interv ention program for infants and toddlers. These three children were exp osed to methadone ill utero and experienced withdrawal at birth. Their families' risk factors include poverty and mental illness. Research b ackground for our work is presented. Primary intervention occurred in our therapeutic nursery, which serves children between 0 and 24 months of age. Intervention included addressing developmental and mental hea lth needs of the children and family systems, child development knowle dge, and emotional support needs of their parents. Both qualitative an d quantitative records on how the children and their parents are progr essing are presented. Our account shows improvement for these youngste rs, with this integrated approach impacting on the whole family unit.